Book Nooks - A Christmas Musical

Speaking from personal experience, I know the Silly Season can be difficult for those who have experienced trauma, loss, grief, or heartbreak - anniversaries are always hard.  Benji Riggs has written a whimsical and precious musical examining the difficulty a child might face during their first Christmas without a beloved grandparent.  Despite some pulling on the heartstrings, the tone is hopeful and gladdening, and definitely not mournful.

Founded in 2020, The Flying Elephant Company produces work by talented South Australian actor, writer and composer Benji Riggs, with “an aim to create emotionally rich stories for the whole family”.  In Book Nooks - A Christmas Musical, there is ample opportunity to uncover ‘magic you never knew existed inside books’… or at least within the bookshelves in your grandfather’s house, now young Jack Barker’s home following Pa’s death.

The Burnside Ballroom has been cleverly adapted into theatre mode with a charming, workable set by Adrien Joy and effective lighting by Cais Nitsche.  The sound is a little problematic at times with the hall’s acoustics blurring the young voices somewhat and although of good quality, the recorded music sometimes overrode the vocal balance making the more wordy songs difficult to interpret. That being said, this is a fine theatre work that easily captivated the audience:  writing, song-writing, direction, and performances all combine beautifully to deliver a satisfying, uplifting tale.

The solo adult performer Steven Parker enters with walking stick and cap, a warm and comforting image of a storyteller - or grandfather.  Settling into an armchair by a fireplace and with lovely rich tone, Parker reads from an oversized book to introduce the story and bookend scene changes.  Jack Barker, the young protagonist, has decided that Christmas is hateful now that his Grandfather has died, and after arguing with his mother (Keira Wubbolts) takes to his bed.  Unable to sleep, Jack hears a pattering of tiny footsteps. Upon investigating he is mysteriously transported to the miniature world of the Grunkels who dwell in the bookshelves behind the books and are responsible for making the Christmas sweets.  While brooding in the world of the Grunkels and experiencing their quirky way of life, the magic is dimmed, and until Jack can rediscover his misplaced joy there is no going back.  Fortunately, Grunkel wisdom and energy (with ‘raucous display of cheek and wit’) is such that Jack is able to untangle his convoluted feelings and is coaxed into a sunnier state of mind.

The young ensemble cast were astonishing, dancing and singing with total professionalism and utter commitment: Keira Wubbolts, Nemanja Illic, Harrison James Thomas, Jonathan Slow, Ava-Rose Graves, Milla Illic, Sophia Genery, Josh Curtis, and Khushi Choudhari are all very talented.  Ten year old Nemanja Illic gave a wonderful portrayal of Jack who learns that while memories might fade, love will always remain.  Every young actor was gifted with moments to shine, each impressive in their own right and showcasing their excellent training.

Rigg’s many original song compositions are complex, sometimes text-rich, and definitely provided challenges in range, rhythm, and musicality but with fine direction and support from the creative team the cast shone in their roles.  The other delightful element was Bridget Tran’s energetic and well-designed choreography which took advantage of the stage levels yet expertly managed the space restrictions. 

The Flying Elephant Company have consistently delivered high quality seasons in Adelaide while providing exceptional theatrical opportunities for young artists and audiences.  We are indeed fortunate to have a broad tier of community theatre establishments here, all with a commitment to excellence for both adult and youth performers.  I feel that Book Nooks - A Christmas Musical has the potential to become a cherished classic and could easily tour to other cities and country centres, to great acclaim.

Lisa Lanzi