Review: The Theatre Channel, Episode 4 Holiday Special

Photo credit: Edward Johnson

The Theatre Café is a landmark for any fan of West End theatre, so it has been really sad to see it closed for so long. I know that I would regularly go and enjoy the wonderful atmosphere created. But get ready to enjoy the café in a whole new festive way through the Theatre Channel.

Every performer gives a stunning rendition of their chosen songs, which ranged from ‘Turkey Lurkey’ (sung by the energetic Zizi Strallen) to ‘Ave Maria’, sung beautifully by Manon Taris and dedicated to the memory of Charles Talar, original producer of Notre Dame de Paris, who unfortunately passed away in October due to Covid-19.

But the highlight for me must be ‘Bright New Day’, performed by Rachel John and a large ensemble in the Duke of Yorks Theatre next door, where the energy and passion is so clear. Having spoken to the creative team after watching the episode, I found out that this was filmed on the day London found out they were going into tier three so the message is even more poignant.

It's a frustrating time for the arts, specifically theatre, but being able to see a performance such as ‘Bright New Day’ makes you forget about everything briefly and gives you something to enjoy.

I'd also like to highlight the song ‘Seasons of Love’, sung by graduates in the café. What an amazing opportunity for these young performers who have graduated in the most awful of years. If you watch until the end, Cassidy Janson (who sings a beautifully arranged ‘White Christmas’) echoes this in a “Behind The Scenes” interview.

If you are a musical theatre fan, you must watch this episode, I can't recommend it enough; a lovely festive break from all the worries of the world.

And bring on Episode 5: The Golden Age Of Broadway, released on 29 January.

***** Five stars

Reviewed by: Callum Wallace

To purchase this episode and previous ones, please click here.