A FESTIVE FEAST OF MUSIC, LAUGHTER AND CHEEKY HOLIDAY FUN

By Tanya Howard | Founder, The Live Review London · @glamglitzlondon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Press Invite

There’s something incredibly charming about The Magic of Christmas at Brick Lane Music Hall! It’s wholesome at its core, but also cheeky, saucy, and full of laughter from start to finish. And honestly, that balance made it even more fun. From the minute we sat down, it was clear this wasn’t your standard festive show. It’s nostalgic, a little bonkers in the best way, and full of heart.

The cast are incredibly talented, and every performer brings something special to the stage. The vocal work throughout the show is stunning and the harmonies feel rich and full. A real highlight is Victoria Yellop performing Christmas songs on a violin. It is not often you get to sit in a theatre and hear carols and classics played live in such a moving way. It felt unique and the audience was completely captivated.

DAZZLING COSTUMES AND A VENUE THAT FEELS LIKE CHRISTMAS MAGIC

The costumes are another huge highlight because they are absolutely stunning. There are a lot of them and the quick changes deserve serious applause. Everything sparkles with festive colours and details. There are themed outfits for different parts of the show. The cowboy looks for the country Christmas songs are brilliant, and the film inspired costumes include the famous pink dress from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. Every visual choice adds something fun and festive.

The venue itself is a gem, and I cannot believe I had never been before. I originally assumed it was in Brick Lane because of the name but it is actually in Silvertown, so make sure you check your route. The building is beautiful, and the tables are set out, so everyone gets a good view. The decorations add to the charm, and I was obsessed with the Christmas tree dress in the foyer. It felt like a proper festive day out from the moment we walked in.

A SONG SELECTION THAT SPANS GENRES, ERAS, AND HOLIDAY CLASSIC

The selection of songs is huge and there really is something for everyone. You get chart favourites and nostalgic classics as well as festive film soundtracks and more spiritual numbers. There is even a full Scottish selection and a country Christmas medley. I did not know every song, but I loved listening to the performances. My Mum knew almost all of them and she was having the time of her life. Singing along is encouraged at points and the audience involvement created such a joyful energy.

We went to the afternoon tea performance, and it was such a lovely addition. I always enjoy having food included in a show because it makes the whole experience feel more relaxed. There were four different sandwich flavours, my favourite being the Christmas one (turkey, cranberry, and stuffing) and Mum liked the prawn one. You also get scones, mini mince pies, and macarons, a great selection. From 26 November the food changes to a three course Christmas lunch.

One thing that stood out was how far people travel for this show. The host asked a few audience members where they were from and answers included High Wycombe, Surrey, and even Chicago. It shows how loved this venue is and how strong the reputation of the Christmas shows has become over the years.

THE HEART AND SOUL OF THE SHOW SHINES THROUGH IN EVERY MOMENT

The host and founder of the venue, Vincent Hayes, is the heart of the show. His passion for music hall and for the venue shines through in every moment. He is funny and warm and had the entire room laughing. There were moments where the cast were trying not to laugh at him, and it made everything feel extra genuine and joyful.

The Magic Of Christmas is a wonderful festive experience that blends music, comedy, nostalgia, and charm. It is easy to see why audiences return each year and why it has become such a beloved part of London’s seasonal calendar. I would return in a heartbeat and I left feeling completely uplifted. It is exactly the kind of Christmas outing that lifts your mood and leaves you smiling long after you have left the venue.

NB: The Magic of Christmas is running at Brick Lane Music Hall from until 19 December. Afternoon tea, lunch and evening dinner performances are available, so check which experience you are booking before your visit.

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