Michael Cox reviews a production ‘willing to do anything for a laugh’.
It’s all go with the Cornley Drama Society. This intrepid amateur theatre company have had cracks at plenty of shows—all of which have “gone wrong” in many ways—and now they’re taking on a traditional production of A Christmas Carol. Director Chris Bean is auditioning for ‘the right’ Scrooge—even if he (and everyone else) knows who he really wants for the part: himself, of course.
With casting done, a production meeting is held to show off a smart looking model of the proposed set. But no one can touch it!—the builders are going to take the designs literally off what’s in the small black box. But where did the bag of Maltesers go? And what about the small puppet that’s to portray the pivotal role of Tiny Tim? Whose name goes on the gravestones? And never mind the actor who wants to be Scrooge and thinks sabotage is the best way to find himself in the role—even if it has to happen in the middle of opening night.
That’s about it for plot when it comes to Mischief’s latest bag of theatrical shenanigans: Christmas Carol Goes Wrong. After the set-up, the Cornley company find themselves in front of an audience doing the best they can with a set that defies logic, props that are misplaced and a cast that may or may not know their lines.
To give any more information would rob audiences of the pleasure in seeing the plethora of gags unfold, so we’ll leave it there--but it’s all done to an impressive level. The timing of the cast is down to perfection, and the “failings” of the set never fail to bring about laughter. It’s all very funny—particularly to those who have experience with amateur dramatic groups.
Do audiences need to have seen any of the previous shows to understand any of the dynamics? Absolutely not. It’s all clear—within five minutes, each role is defined and the rules of what’s about to unfurl are understood.
If there is any criticism, it is in its running time—many of the gags feel like they’re egged a bit too much. But making any serious critique feels like kicking a cute puppy—it feels cruel, particularly as it’s so eager to please. And if there is anything to be said for Mischief, they really are willing to do anything for a laugh.
And make no mistake—there are many laughs to be had here.
Christmas Carol Goes Wrong performs at the Kings Theatre in Glasgow until February 22, 2026. It completes its tour next week. For further details, go to Mischief’s website.
Photo by Mark Senior.
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