Reviewed by Kate O'Sullivan
Bogan Literature’s reimagining of A Christmas Carol, now playing at the Subiaco Arts Centre, offers a vibrant and locally inspired take on Dickens’ classic tale. With its Western Australian flair and playful nods to Aussie culture, the show delivers a fresh perspective on a timeless story, embracing a uniquely WA lifestyle with cultural references that feel authentic without veering into caricature.
The cast deserves high praise for their strong ensemble work and versatility. Taking on multiple roles, they brought distinct personalities to each character, showcasing both their talent and commitment. However, while most transitions between roles were impressively seamless, there were occasional moments where the physical logistics of character changes—visible movements behind set pieces—became a minor distraction.
The adaptation strikes a balance between lightheartedness and the poignant beats of Scrooge’s journey, offering a new take on the Christmas classic that feels both fresh and familiar. Technically, the production was polished in many areas but had a few hiccups here and there. The set design was simple yet effective, with clever use of movable flats to create a variety of spaces. These flats worked well visually, though their slightly noisy wheels could benefit from some extra TLC. The lighting was a standout, particularly in its ability to divide the stage and highlight the story’s supernatural elements, though audiences should be aware of a warning for flashing lights.
The show’s sound, however, was less consistent. Microphone imbalances occasionally made dialogue difficult to catch, with moments where even audience members in the front row felt overwhelmed by the volume. While this issue detracted slightly from the overall experience, it’s likely to be ironed out as the run progresses and shouldn’t discourage anyone from attending.
Despite these minor issues, A Christmas Carol remains a thoroughly enjoyable night at the theatre. Its 90-minute runtime keeps the pace snappy, offering a perfect reprieve from the chaos of the holiday season. With its humour, heart, and uniquely Western Australian twist, it’s well worth making time for this spirited adaptation. Whether you’re a die-hard Dickens fan or just looking for some festive cheer, Bogan Literature has delivered a lively and heartfelt holiday treat.
Reviewer Note: Tickets for this review were provided by the theatre company.
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