In the absence of their usual festive programme this year, Pitlochry Festival Theatre present to us The Magic of Christmas; a story of 2 elves, Lari and Hari, who have lost the north star. We follow these elves through a Christmas carol sing-a-long to discover where the north star has gone. There is even a sighting of the big fella himself..Santa! 

Written by Russell Beard and Elizabeth Newman, the story is a touching tale for Christmas, with a sole aim of providing some festive joy this holiday season. There are plenty of new songs to grab your attention and elves Lari and Hari, played by Barbara Hockaday and Ali Watt respectively, are dressed in suitably bright and cheery elf costumes. 

The set and scenery is fantastic in its attempt to recreate Lapland. You have sleighs, advent doors and Mrs Claus’ art garden. Bravo to the scenic department, headed by Suzi Potts, for this achievement. 

There are plenty of messages aimed at children; about telling the truth, believing and being kind to one another. And of course, there are a few laughable moments for adults snuck in there too!

The acting can occasionally be a little too overenthusiastic, with excessive hand gestures and storytelling through song.  Both Mrs Claus (Clare Grogan) and Santa (Colin McCredie) are as you would imagine, however - magical!

At just shy of 30 minutes, it is a festive delight aimed at children, but that doesn’t make it any less enjoyable for adults. 

***’ Three and a half stars

Reviewed by: Emma Littler