Prepare for a hilarious holiday disaster! The beloved comedy troupe that brought you 'The Play That Goes Wrong' is now taking their festive chaos to Kent, and it's bound to be a riot!
After a successful eight-week stint in the West End, the mischievous team is touring the UK with their latest masterpiece, 'Christmas Carol Goes Wrong'. This time, they're bringing their unique brand of humor to Canterbury for six unforgettable nights.
Imagine the iconic Charles Dickens' tale, 'A Christmas Carol', but with a twist! The Cornley Amateur Drama Society, a delightfully disorganized theater group, attempts to perform the classic story while navigating a series of hilarious disasters. From missing cast members to heated backstage feuds, this show-within-a-show promises to keep you laughing from start to finish.
But here's where it gets interesting: the play is created by Mischief, a renowned company with multiple awards under their belt. Founded by the talented trio of writers Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer, and Henry Shields, the play is inspired by their popular BBC TV series, 'The Goes Wrong Show'.
And this isn't their first rodeo with 'A Christmas Carol'. Their initial adaptation debuted on screen in 2017, but this new stage production is not just a rehash. "We wanted to take it further," reveals Henry Lewis. "For the first time, we're inviting the audience into the rehearsal room, showing the Cornley players' interactions and preparations before the show. It's a whole new level of immersion."
This innovative approach allows for a unique comedic experience. "By letting the audience witness the rehearsal, we can set up intricate jokes that pay off big time later," Lewis continues. "It's like a delicious slow burn."
The Cornley gang made their debut in 2012 with 'The Play That Goes Wrong', which won the prestigious Laurence Olivier Award for Best Comedy Play. Since then, the writers have crafted other critically acclaimed comedies, such as 'Peter Pan Goes Wrong' and 'The Comedy About a Bank Robbery'.
"What's fascinating is why they keep trying," muses Jonathan Sayer. "Despite the constant chaos, they're a family, a chosen family. They'd rather be on stage, bickering and stumbling, than anywhere else. It's a unique bond."
Canterbury's Marlowe Theatre holds a special place in the team's heart, as it was the starting point for their first major tour. "It's a place filled with memories," Henry Shields reminisces.
Don't miss your chance to catch this side-splitting show! It's coming to Canterbury from February 24th to March 1st. Book your tickets online or by phone, and get ready for a Christmas comedy like no other!
