The Fir Tree – Globe Theatre, London

A review of The Fir Tree, an adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s tale staged as a Christmas show at the Globe Theatre. A charming and fun evening for families (and anyone in need of Christmas cheer).

The Fir Tree

The Globe‘s Christmas show draws on a lesser-known tale by Hans Christian Andersen. The Fir Tree relates the story of a little tree in a forest. This tree, not content with its lovely, peaceful surroundings, wants more. It sees other trees leaving the forest, and wants to know what they know, know where they go. But the tree’s companions (a young boy, a stork and some sparrows) are reluctant to tell it what happens to those other trees when they leave the safety of the woods. Like many other stories by Hans Christian Andersen, the adaptation has put a slightly happier spin on what is a very bleak original. 2021 is not the year to be upsetting children at Christmas.

It’s a very simple story, but lends itself to effective storytelling. A handful of actors play different roles, with the tree personified by Bettrys Jones, and Richard Katz working overtime as the stork, a hare, and more. With Omicron taking down productions left, right and centre there are definitely a few last minute changes, but I applaud the company for keeping things going. And this is the right sort of environment for the odd stumble or missed cue – everyone is in good spirits so it becomes part of the fun.

An Evening Of Christmas Cheer

This is definitely a production which is aimed at families and children (perhaps more so than the Globe’s website let on), but is fun for all. Hannah Khalil has created a big-hearted and entertaining adaptation. There is a serious (ecological) note, but not too much moralising. There is a bit of singing, an opportunity to decorate trees, and – like all good Globe productions – a little audience participation. It runs at just over an hour, which feels like the perfect length. In order to achieve this length, Khalil has added a second Hans Christian Andersen story. The story of the Nightingale and the Emperor becomes a charming tale within a tale, related by a stranger (Paul Ready) who shows up at Christmas and exchanges this story for shelter and a meal.

So if you’re looking for something fun and sweet for these long winter nights, get yourself a ticket. I was pleased to have the opportunity to step into the ‘Wooden O’ one last time this year, and to do it for something so full of Christmas cheer.

Salterton Arts Review’s rating: 3/5

The Fir Tree on until 30 December 2021 (but things are fast-moving so check the website to confirm)