The Flint Street Nativity Review

Christmas: capable of conjuring nostalgic memories dating as far back as first school. We all remember the school nativity where seemingly strong friendships were destroyed over who would be cast as Joseph and Mary and who would be sentenced to play the donkey. The nerve-shattering anticipation of appearing on stage could reduce even the most confident child to a jelly-kneed pant wetter and the less said about the crushing disappointment of being rebuffed beneath the mistletoe the better. Ah Christmas, such a time of joy.

Tim Firth hurtles us back through time to confront these memories head-on in the Flint Street Nativity.

First broadcast in the late-90s when most of the cast had just broken through in the world of British comedy, the Flint Street Nativity portrays the backstage (and on stage) drama of the Christmas nativity at the fictional Flint Street school. Watching it now, we are faced with a tour-de-force in recognisable British talent, faces we've been used to seeing on our screens in countless shows and productions for over ten years. But despite the glittery cast, the Flint Street Nativity also boasts a sharp script full of funny dialogue and many memorable scenes.

Not that any of the dialogue would be uttered by anyone older than 10, mind you, as the adult cast portray the children. This uniqueness is at first silly, seeing these adults blowing raspberries and talking like kids is ludicrous, but as the show sinks in, the genius of it becomes apparent. By casting adults in the roles of the children, we the audience are transported more effectively into their world, and the relatability is increased tenfold.

This appealing cast and nostalgic setting ensure that the Flint Street Nativity is not only fun for the kids, but great fun for adults too. An at times positively brooding performance by John Thomson (as an inn keeper) is a highlight, as are the performances of Frank Skinner (as Herod) and Stephen Tompkinson (as the narrator), the latter proving to be emotional and heartbreaking by the show's climax.

A special mention has to go to Mark Addy who plays the unappealing role of the Flint Street nativity's donkey. His deadpan portrayal of the child who, for much of the film, hides his face beneath the papier-mâché head of the donkey, is hilarious, and a scene between Addy and Neil Morrissey in the playground as it rains heavily upon them is one of more than a few poignant moments.

The set pieces, made huge to compensate for the height of the cast, are impressive, a very funny doll with a loose head (and how that scenario plays out) springs to mind as a definite high point.

The Flint Street Nativity is a very British and very funny piece of festive fun and if you're looking for some nostalgia and a good laugh then this is well worth your time. The entire cast are on form and the familiar faces and funny script will have you in stitches.

7/10