CHRISKIRKPATRICKMAS: A BOY BAND CHRISTMAS MUSICAL: FROM HIATUS TO HILARITY

If you’re an *NSYNC fan eagerly awaiting their return, “Chriskirkpatrickmas: A Boy Band Christmas Musical” at Seven Dials Playhouse may pique your interest. This show is here to give you a great ride of nostalgia and laughter. However, if you’re anticipating a classic Christmas theatre experience, you might want to adjust your expectations or tune into a different frequency.

Set in the intimate Seven Dials Playhouse, the all-female crew portraying an all-male band adds a unique and refreshing dynamic. The concept is undoubtedly enjoyable, but the overall experience falls slightly short of greatness. To elevate the show, a bit more humour and lively music, especially from *NSYNC, would have been appreciated.

Despite its title, this show is not your typical boy band Christmas musical. The plot revolves around *NSYNC member Chris Kirkpatrick, injecting life and humour, especially for fans of the iconic boy band. Kirkpatrick is visited by a wish-granting angel, Marky Mark. He faces a deadline to make a wish that could change his life. All he yearns for is an *NSYNC reunion. To give him clarity on the events that got him to his current situation, Marky takes him on a throwback ride across past events, only to uncover the truth behind the band’s “hiatus.”

HOLIDAY SPIRIT MEETS 90S NOSTALGIA

While the performance leans heavily on comedy, the audience might find themselves wishing for more *NSYNC tunes. The clever incorporation of a Christmas twist, reminding us of Dickens’ ghost of Christmas past, is the touch of holiday spirit we were hoping for more of.

Overall, a special applause to the exceptional acting, particularly by Valen Shore as Chris Kirkpatrick and Nicole Wyland as Justin Timberlake. And kudos to costume and wig designer Y. Sharon Peng for a wonderful job recreating the band members, especially with the female cast members.

In summary, “A Boy Band Christmas Musical” at Seven Dials Playhouse offers a delightful blend of nostalgia and amusement. While it may not hit all the right notes for everyone, fans of *NSYNC are sure to enjoy this walk down memory lane.

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