Forget doomscrolling! This month, escape into the magical world of theatre, all from the comfort of your couch. We've curated a list of the best streaming performances, guaranteed to lift your spirits and spark some joy. Get ready for catchy tunes, heartwarming stories, and maybe even a little bit of legal drama involving…Jaffa Cakes!
A Jaffa Cake Musical: A Courtroom Comedy That Takes the Biscuit!
Is it a cake, or is it a biscuit? That's the million-dollar question – actually, it was a VAT question! – at the heart of A Jaffa Cake Musical. Gigglemug's hilarious comedy revisits the real-life 1991 legal battle between McVitie's and HMRC (Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs, the UK's tax authority). The dispute? Whether Jaffa Cakes should be taxed as chocolate-covered biscuits. Why does it matter? Because biscuits were taxed differently than cakes! The musical promises catchy songs that will be stuck in your head long after the curtain closes (or, in this case, the streaming ends). You can find it (and Gigglemug's Scouts! The Musical) on Lounges.TV.
But here's where it gets controversial: Did HMRC make the right call? Some argue that the cake-like texture and ingredients of a Jaffa Cake clearly classify it as a cake. Others insist that its biscuit-like size and packaging make it a biscuit. What do you think? Chime in on the comments below!
Beauty and the Beast: A Rock 'n' Roll Panto!
Tale as old as time… gets a rocking makeover! The New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich is streaming their rock 'n' roll panto version of Beauty and the Beast. Catch live-streams of matinee and evening performances throughout the month, including a special Christmas Eve morning show. Is it ever too early to sing along to Meat Loaf and Dolly Parton? We think not! This is a perfect family-friendly option to get you in the holiday spirit.
Sleeping Beauty: A Pantomime Tradition!
Nottingham Playhouse is one of the few theatres that consistently offers an online pantomime experience. This year's production of Sleeping Beauty is written and directed by the theatre's artistic director, Adam Penford. Expect a fire-breathing dragon and the return of local legend John Elkington as the Dame (the traditional comedic female character in pantomime). Available for streaming from December 16th, this is a must-see for panto lovers. And this is the part most people miss: the online version often includes bonus content, like behind-the-scenes interviews and cast Q&As!
The Giraffe and the Pelly and Me: A Roald Dahl Delight!
Hammed Animashaun brings Roald Dahl's whimsical tale of a boy who dreams of opening a sweetshop to life in this theatrical reading. Directed by Daniel Bailey, the Unicorn Theatre's film adaptation of The Giraffe and the Pelly and Me features charming puppets, lively songs, and a vibrant design. You couldn't ask for a more engaging storyteller! This production is perfect for younger audiences and anyone who loves the magic of Roald Dahl.
What's Not to Love?: John C. Reilly as Mister Romantic!
John C. Reilly is irresistible as Mister Romantic in this vaudeville show. Originally performed for a short run at Soho Theatre Walthamstow, What's Not to Love? sees Reilly wooing his audience with popular songs. The accompanying album features classics by Irving Berlin and Tom Waits. Prepare to be serenaded and charmed!
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical: Rock Out With the Demigods!
Rick Riordan's beloved half-blood hero is back! The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical is touring, and the original London cast recording is available online. Featuring high-energy songs like "DOA," "Killer Quest!," and "Bring on the Monsters," this rock musical is perfect for turning the volume up to 11. Get ready to rock out with Percy and his friends!
Kevrin, Out of Season: A Cornish Drama!
In this intriguing two-hander by Jack Brownridge-Kelly, a young, pregnant Cornish woman seeking accommodation moves into a couple's holiday home. Kevrin, Out of Season slowly unravels the connections between the three characters. Filmed at the Burrell theatre in Truro, this thought-provoking drama is available on YouTube. This is a great choice for those who enjoy character-driven stories with a touch of mystery.
Guys and Dolls at Christmas: A Holiday Treat!
For the BBC's Drama on 3, two of Damon Runyon's stories – "Dancing Dan's Christmas" and "Three Wise Guys" – are presented alongside Frank Loesser's "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?" sung by Jamie Parker, who played Sky Masterson in Guys and Dolls in London and Chichester a decade ago. This is a perfect way to add a touch of classic Broadway to your holiday season.
So, which of these theatrical treats will you be streaming this month? Are you team cake or team biscuit when it comes to Jaffa Cakes? Let us know in the comments below!
