There are few things more festive than getting cosy and popping on a Christmas film. Unless of course you’re a theatre lover, and then your dose of yuletide cheer must be performed live on stage, ideally with musical numbers, tap dancing and faux snow. Thank goodness The Mill at Sonning is offering just that, with their current production of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas.

Based on the 1954 Paramount Pictures blockbuster musical, the stage adaptation of White Christmas first opened on Broadway in 2008 and has had multiple revivals in the US and UK since. The story follows successful performers and old army buddies Bob Wallace and Phil Davis as they pursue the beautiful Haynes Sisters, Betty and Judy, to Vermont where the girls are booked to be the festive entertainment at an Inn. It turns out that the owner of the Inn is the same General that Bob and Phil served under during the war, and he could use a bit of help getting the business’ finances back on track, so along with Betty and Judy, the boys pull together a show and invite their old army division along for support.

White Christmas boasts an exceptionally strong cast: Jason Jajdi as Bob and Connor Hughes as Phil both ooze charisma and charm, with never a tap step out of place. Opposite them, Gabriella Williams plays the more straightlaced of the sisters - Betty - and Nic Myers brings life to her carefree counterpart, Judy. The four are supported by Shirley Jameson who brings wonderful comedy to the role of Martha, the receptionist at the Inn, Mark Curry as General Waverly, and Natasha Cayabyab who portrays a beautifully childlike Susan, the granddaughter of the General. The cast is completed by Shem Omari James, Greta McKinnon, Eleanor Walsh , Elliot Allinson, Lewis Rae, Grace Chan and Jack Speck who all take on multiple smaller roles, as well as forming a talented ensemble for the musical numbers.

The choreography by Gary Lloyd (assisted by Lauren Gore and Emma Hunter) is beautiful, and in keeping with the period of the piece. Just complex enough to be impressive, but carried off with ease by the very able cast. Natalie Titchener’s costume design also leans into the classic 50’s style of the piece, with sharp outfits and hats for the men, and beautifully cut dresses or two-piece outfits for the ladies. The red, white and green Christmas costumes for the finale are a beautiful touch, and there are a few comical pieces which enhance the playful nature of the story (look out for the dancers Christmas tree costumes!)

The book by David Ives and Paul Blake does feel a little slow in places, and there are defiantly moments that could be trimmed to keep the pace up. However, this doesn’t diminish the audience’s enjoyment, and as the second act draws to its inevitable snowy climax, the production has the whole auditorium bewitched by its Christmassy charm.

Director Jonathan O’Boyle’s White Christmas is like receiving a warm festive hug from an old friend; it brings warmth, joy and familiarity with no surprises, and it will undoubtedly be appreciated by many this Christmas season.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Sarah Brown

White Christmas play at The Mill at Sonning until 25 January, with further info here.