A thrilling fusion of physical comedy, live music and anarchic fun!
There were a lot of things we loved about this show. Even before stepping into the theatre, I was excited to see a festive production that wasn’t already familiar. Children’s theatre is (understandably) full of well-known book adaptations, but whilst this show is based on Mac Barnett’s picture book How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney? (illustrated by Jon Klassen), it was one we hadn’t read. That made it a real treat to walk in not knowing what to expect. (And of course we now own the book and it is being read every night!)
With Told by an Idiot at the helm, I had a pretty good idea it would be something a bit different – and we were not disappointed. Adapted and directed by Paul Hunter (Co-founder and Artistic Director of Told by an Idiot), the show bursts into life as Mikey Ureta (also Choreographer) saunters on stage, half-dressed, donning his sleeveless Santa jacket before breakdancing in and around the stage. From that moment, the tone is set for quirky, effervescent and downright silly storytelling.
The chaotic moments that had us laughing out loud are beautifully balanced by still, calm narration, including a traditional Danish song performed by Frida Cæcilia Rødbroe (also Composer), whose voice is as gorgeous as the song. The ensemble cast (Giulia Innocenti, Nathan Queeley-Dennis, Mikey Ureta, and Frida Cæcilia Rødbroe) bring energy and joy to the many characters they play, supported by Anna Blackburn as Assistant Director and Understudy.
Visually, the show is enriched by its creative team; Sonya Smullen’s clever design, appearing simple but stuffed full of surprises, Rachel Leonard’s playful puppetry direction, Esther Kehinde Ajayi’s sound design, and Sarah Readman’s lighting design. Together, these creatives conjure a sleighful of tricks, gags and festive atmosphere.
For me, they’ve nailed the Christmas show: a story that all children are fascinated to explore, a multi-talented ensemble, and the satisfaction that by the end, the season has been thoroughly celebrated. Teddy’s favourite bit? Santa farting. If you put in a fart gag (and this one was executed very creatively), it will always be a highlight!
How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney? runs at the Unicorn Theatre, Weston stage, from 15 November 2025 – 3 January 2026. For audiences aged 2 – 102. We were gifted tickets to the press performance on 26 November at the Unicorn Theatre.
Image credit: Manuel Harlan