The musical “Christmas Is Coming!” originated from children’s Christmas plays in which its creator, Debbie Isitt, participated in Birmingham. In 2009, they quite naturally turned into a hit film, and then, when it became clear that success was inevitable, a musical stage production appeared. Debbie Isitt wrote both the music and the lyrics for the songs in the musical. However, she wrote the music together with Nicky Ager.
Debbie also took the time to write a book of the same name, which tells the story of how St. Bernadette’s School decided to put on a Christmas play, promising Hollywood fame to those who took part. Thanks to an innocent lie from the teacher’s assistant, Mr. Poppy. The stage adaptation has become a beloved annual Christmas tradition, balancing the established characters of the film with fresh theatrical energy. It premiered in 2017, and you can read more about the musical and its authors here: birmingham-trend.com.
The history of the musical’s creation
The musical “A Christmas Carol” is now more than just a traditional Christmas show in Birmingham; some call it a cult British musical comedy. Perhaps this is true, as it combines warm humour, collective energy and, most importantly, the Christmas spirit. Or perhaps it is all a consequence of the fact that the show, adapted from the cult film that became a hit in the UK, also occupies a special place in the theatrical history of Birmingham, the city where the stage version was first performed. Incidentally, since its creation, the play has become one of the “must-see” family events of the winter season.
The project is based on the film of the same name, which was released in 2009. The screenplay was also written and directed by Debbie Isitt. She was born in Birmingham and is now an important figure in British theatre and cinema. An actress, screenwriter and director, she is renowned for her sharp sense of humour and ability to portray the everyday life of the English working class.
The film, which centres on a primary school and the chaotic organisation of a Christmas concert, immediately caused a huge sensation among viewers. This was thanks to its accessible humour and very friendly tone. It is said that Debbie Isitt, the screenwriter and director, drew inspiration from her own experience participating in school Christmas performances at Our Lady of Fatima Primary School in Harborne, Birmingham.
Debbie made the film “It’s a Christmas Carol!” together with Martin Freeman, Mark Watton and Ashley Jensen. Set in Coventry and featuring a cast of local schoolchildren, the film was a resounding success — and led to three sequels. Once working in the theatre as an actress, screenwriter and director, Debbie quickly realised that this hit film could also make a brilliant musical.
After a while, Isitt got down to work, trying to use her experience and memories to bring all the twists and turns to life on stage, conveying the spirit of the community and all the festive chaos. So she adapted the film for the stage, writing the music together with her boyfriend Nicky Ager. In doing so, she retained the main story of rival schools and the charming lie about the Hollywood producer.
Theatrical remake
To work on the musical, Debbie Isitt teamed up with composer and playwright Nicky Ager, a musician known for his work in British musical theatre. Together, they transformed the original script into a true musical, enriching the story with new songs, choreography and stage dynamics, designed specifically for a family audience.
The world premiere of the musical Christmas! took place in October 2017 at Birmingham Rep. Needless to say, this institution is of great importance to Birmingham’s cultural life. This choice was not accidental, as Birmingham, the author’s hometown, provided the ideal context for the premiere, deeply rooted in the social and educational reality of the Midlands. Success was not long in coming, with the play receiving rave reviews, marking the beginning of its long theatrical life.
According to the author herself, when Debbie was growing up in Birmingham, one of the most memorable events of the Christmas holidays for her was a trip to the Birmingham Rep for a festive performance. Therefore, when it was decided to stage the musical at this theatre, it was quite poignant.
It was her childhood experiences that inspired Debbie to write this musical. Attending school Christmas plays when she was still a pupil at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Primary School. It is from these memories that the play features so many colourful characters, including class teacher Mr Madden, who is desperate to make Christmas a success. His new and funny teaching assistant Mr Poppy decides to create an unusual festive performance.
The plot of the musical
According to the plot of the musical, Paul Madden is a somewhat disappointed teacher who is trying to restore meaning to both his career and his personal life. Deciding that a Christmas play will help him achieve this, he sets to work with his students. In doing so, he has to deal with school competition, grandiose illusions and absurd situations. However, the play, as a comedy, shows how the awkwardness of adults contrasts with the sincerity and healthy imagination of children. In a humorous style, the author conveys a clear message to the audience about the importance of creativity, mutual assistance, and self-confidence.
Music plays a significant role in the success of the musical. The songs, deliberately very simple and accessible, combine British pop, musical theatre traditions and the same comic notes. The children are not mere extras; they form the emotional core of the performance. Working with young performers, who are also “Bramis”, enhances the authenticity and energy of each performance.
Although the cast has changed over the seasons and tours, the quality of the ensemble’s performance has always been highly praised. The actors playing adult roles have managed to strike a delicate balance between caricature and tenderness, while the children have added freshness and spontaneity. Critics noted the dynamic staging, colourful sets and festive atmosphere that captivates the audience from the very first minutes.
The audience’s reaction to the musical was extremely positive. In Birmingham, as in other British cities, the performance was described as the perfect show for the whole family. Local newspapers praised its intergenerational humour and ability to bring children, parents, and even grandparents together around a common cause, shared creativity and theatrical experience. This reaction contributed to the longevity of the show, which has been running for almost 10 years.
Awards and recognition
As for awards, the musical has never managed to win any of the major national prizes, such as the Olivier Awards. However, its real success lies elsewhere — in its longevity, regular tours around the UK and an unshakeable place in the repertoire of Christmas performances. Each new production confirms the musical’s status, confidently leading it to the status of a classic of British popular theatre.
Today, the musical “A Christmas Carol” is perceived as something more than just a film adaptation or a simple performance. It is a successful example of contemporary stage creativity, capable of transforming local history into a national cultural phenomenon. For Birmingham, this musical remains a source of pride, illustrating the creative vitality of the city and its central role in the theatrical landscape of Great Britain.
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