Making musical theatre since 1927, Bilston Operatic Company are an amateur ensemble who strive to produce performances to a professional standard. Nativity! The Musical is yet another example of them doing just that.

With a highly skilled and energetic cast performing alongside strong leading actors - and complemented by a cleverly crafted set and staging, fabulous costumes and lively choreography - the company have once again created a polished and professional production which is an absolute joy to watch.

The show is adapted from the 2009 film Nativity!, which was written and directed by Midlands-born BAFTA winner Debbie Isitt.

The story fundamentally follows three childhood friends, brilliantly portrayed by Alec White (who plays Paul Maddens), Olly Derham (Gordon Shakespeare) and Stacey Lovett (Jennifer Lore). Growing up in Coventry, the trio believe they can achieve their dreams and enjoy successful careers in film and theatre.

Reality bites, however. As adults, and in sharp contrast to their youthful ambitions, Paul and Gordon have become primary school teachers: Paul - Mr Maddens - works at St Bernadette’s, a failing local state primary school, while Gordon - Mr Shakespeare - is employed by Oakmoor, the nearby prep school. Paul and Jennifer had become a couple, but before Paul could propose, Jennifer ditched him in pursuit of a career as a film producer’s assistant in Hollywood, leaving him brokenhearted...

This much-loved musical hilariously follows the efforts of both schools as they try to create the best Nativity show and earn a five-star review from the local critic. It’s a contest that serves only to highlight a bitter rivalry between Mr Maddens and Mr Shakespeare!

Acting as the narrator of this debacle is childlike classroom assistant Mr Poppy, entering the fray with infectious energy and steely determination but little sense of responsibility. The role is here flamboyantly played by Matt Eason. Bringing to the part great comic timing - and, I suspect, a sprinkling of his own clever adlibbing - his performance is a joy to behold.

As the rival Nativity plays progress from rehearsals to performance, Mr Poppy, in collusion with Mr Maddens, promises everyone, including the head teacher Mrs Bevan (played by Sarah Houghton) that Hollywood is coming to Coventry to film their show. It’s a complete fantasy based purely on Mr Poppy’s belief that Jennifer is a Hollywood producer! 

Watching a friendship develop between the downhearted Mr Maddens and the exuberant Mr Poppy, as they bring out the best in one another whilst also encouraging the pupils to believe in themselves, is truly heartwarming to watch. 

There’s a lovely moment during the song One Night, One Moment when the dastardly Mr Shakespeare, in an attempt to sabotage St Bernadette’s Nativity production, pulls the plug on the lights, plunging the stage into semi-darkness. Ever resourceful and bolstered by a compelling “can-do” attitude, Mr Poppy then asks everyone with a phone to turn on their torches. The request breaks the fourth wall, creating a magical and memorable connection between the cast and the audience.

The young actors playing the pupils simply stole the show with their innocent smiles, fabulous comic timing and impressive stage presence. All this added to the overall professionalism of the production. Their song, Dear Father Christmas, was one of the evening’s many highlights. 

There are excellent vocals from the lead characters, including the children playing the pupils, who are supported by an equally strong and talented ensemble. All are brilliantly accompanied by the Midlands Concert Orchestra.

Effectively bridging the gap between now and the looming panto season, Bilston Operatic Company are to be commended for delivering an uplifting and utterly charming version of Nativity! The Musical. They were richly and rightly rewarded on the opening night with rapturous applause from a hugely appreciative audience.

Five stars

Nativity! The Musical was reviewed by Sue Hull on Wednesday 13 November at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, where it shows until Saturday 17 November.