The Magic Of Christmas

" A Real Festive Treat" Review for the Torbay Weekly by Dawn Gillingwater

Watch the promotional video HERE

It may only be the beginning of November and Halloween a few days ago, but the festive season has well and truly kicked off at Babbacombe Theatre with their show The Magic of Christmas. 

With short segments packed with comedy, illusions, and songs galore, audiences enjoyed a real festive treat. 

I’ve been to Babbacombe’s productions for countless years and have to say this is one of their absolute best. 

The team behind the show really knows its audience and there are plenty of show stopping numbers from yesteryear, interspersed with Christmas hits and much more. 

At the helm this time round is Babbacombe Theatre favourite Phil Lowen. The naturally funny performer had the crowd in hysterics with his hilarious Pavarotti routine and his take on the Oscar winning film Titanic was comedy gold! 

He’s clearly a huge talent and without question brightened up a very dull and rainy night. 

Magician Peter Baffles had the audience baffled by his tricks. We were all left open mouthed with his brilliant illusions with socks, jelly beans and even an invisible purse. 

The show wouldn’t be complete without music, which plays a big part in the overall production. 

Vocal lead Claire Waring is a star who hit every note to perfection. Her talent and versatility is truly something special. 

Sophie Beresford also stood out and she has really grown in terms of stage presence and vocally. 

Her talent really shone brightly when she took to the stage  performing the Celine Dion hit Because you Love Me, which was a show highlight. 

Throw into the mix Joe Harris and you have a strong cast of vocalists with faultless harmonies. 

When they came together they are a real force! A particular favourite of mine was the medley of hits from The Lion King where they all got their chance in the spotlight. 

Thanks to choreography by Lucy O’Neill,  troupe Danze Fantazy were on point and despite performing non-stop through the two hour show, their energy didn’t falter. 

This year the costumes also really complemented the show. They were classy and glittered and sparkled just like the stars of the show. 

Director Colin Matthews has pulled it out of the bag again and managed to produce a right Christmas cracker! 

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"Luvverly!" Review for the Herald Express by Paul Levie

Watch the promotional video HERE

THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS ****

There may be a new face in charge, but the Babbacombe Christmas show ‘The Magic of Christmas’ serves up all the treats that locals and holidaymakers have come to expect.

Comedy impressionist Phil Lowen is no newcomer to the Babbacombe faithful, but this is the first time he has taken on the starring role as compere and link man.  And he smashed it.

After a slightly slow first-night start Phil soon warmed up nicely to have the audience rocking in their seats.  It was a tough act to follow headliners like Andy Oakley and Steve Laister, but Phil slipped into the role with aplomb.

Assisting him on the comedy front, and providing the magic of the title, is Peter ‘How Does He Do That’ Baffles who left everyone shaking their heads in disbelief.

His warmth and charm had the audience eating out of the palms of his mesmerising hands.

The musical side of the show came from three young, very talented singers who complemented each other in both their choice of songs and vocal skills.

Joe Harris makes his fourth appearance at Babbacombe choosing to add a fresh mix of modern songs along with his own take on some of the classics.

While Claire Waring and Sophie Beresford belted out some real show-stoppers as well as gentler ballads, and effortlessly melted into the demands of both comedy and dance.  What a team.

Finally came the super-slick, super-sexy Danze Fantazy, who despite their spelling skills were immaculate in all other respects.  Their routines were perfect, their costumes stunning, and the sheer happiness they generated made them a joy to watch.  Ten out of ten.

Getting older means that the years fly by quicker than one might like.  But the silver lining to that is that the Babbacombe Christmas shows seem to come round quicker than ever

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After the opening of the show on Wednesday 25th October, we were delighted to be able to share with you the 1st Three reviews posted on TripAdvisor. Thank you to each contributer, your support is so appreciated as are all your lovely comnets and 5 star ratings!

Rosemary W ***** Sparkling Enjoyable Magic of Christmas

Sparkling, Christmas Show, excellent variety, singing, stunning costumes, magical moments and a lovely 2 hours in one of the best theatres in the County. All the theatre staff are lovely and dressed in 'Christmas', all adds to the special atmosphere.

Angela B ***** Highly Recommend

Went to see a magic of Christmas would absolutely recommend going to see it. Fantastic show excellent from start to finish.

Catharina G ***** Great enjoyment

Went to the show, it was very well put together and extremely funny. We had such a good laugh. Everybody in the show excelled themselves.

Lovely people also took to Facebook and left some super comments

Jackie N - Been to tonight’s performance, it’s a brilliant feel-good show. Everyone was amazing. This is a show not to be missed.

Rachel T - It’s a brilliant, show, I can thoroughly recommend it!

Pauline Ashton - Went last night, brilliant show, comedy, singing, dancing and magic all-stars performed to a very high standard. Highly recommended a show not to be missed.

Anne M - We've just come out from tonight's production. Absolutely fabulous - comedy, magic, singing and dancing. All the stars were amazing!

Come and see the show and have your say!