Review: Christmas Carol Goes Wrong

📍 Apollo Theatre

🗓️ 3rd January 2026

Christmas Carol Goes Wrong is Mischief’s latest play, currently running at the Apollo Theatre until January 25th.

Mischief previously created a TV version of Christmas Carol Goes Wrong, so I was intrigued to see how they would adapt it for the stage — and it didn’t disappoint.

Hilarious, chaotic and silly — all the ingredients of a fabulous Mischief show.

This was not my first time seeing the production — in fact, it was my fourth, which should give you an idea of just how much I enjoyed it. I didn’t get a chance to properly share my thoughts before Christmas, so now felt like the perfect time.

As with their other Goes Wrong productions, the play follows the Cornley characters we know and love as they attempt to stage another production at the Cornley Playhouse… and it goes… well, the play was definitely put on.

The show, written by Henry Lewis, Henry Shields, and Jonathan Sayer and directed by Matt Di Carlo, opens slightly differently from other Goes Wrong productions I’ve seen. Before the main performance begins, we’re given more insight into the audition process and production planning, which sets everything up beautifully before diving into the chaos.

Cornley are not the best planners, and unfortunately this becomes apparent very quickly — and continues throughout the show. They do try… bless them!

Mischief once again showcase their stellar writing with a script that is simply hilarious — endless gags executed brilliantly — and the cast bring it to life with nonstop, energetic comedy from start to finish. 

Dennis (Jonathan Sayer) can’t remember his lines, Jonathan (Greg Tannahill) is still traumatised by Peter Pan, and Robert (Henry Lewis) does everything he can to take the lead. Annie (Nancy Zamit) and Max (Matt Cavendish) bring pure joy and silliness, Trevor (Chris Leask) brings chaos wherever he goes, and Sandra (Sasha Frost) is convinced this is the play that will change her life. Chris Bean (Daniel Fraser), the exasperated director, is hilariously overwhelmed by it all (and them all).

One thing that really stood out to me, especially sitting in the front row on my most recent visit, was the beauty and attention to detail in the set design. From the village streets to Marley’s office, and even a very surprising kitchen, the set is incredibly impressive. Scene changes never disrupt the flow of the show.

Mischief’s mastery of physical comedy is once again on full display. The Ghost of Christmas Yet To Come, in particular, had me laughing so hard I was gasping for air, with tears streaming down my face — a definite highlight of the show. Tiny Tim is another favourite… you’ll know why when you see it.

Mischief productions always guarantee one thing: a reminder that it’s okay to be silly. Everyone needs a good laugh — it’s the best medicine, after all — and in my experience, Mischief shows never disappoint.

Christmas Carol Goes Wrong closes at the Apollo Theatre on January 25th before heading back out on tour around the UK. Check their website for dates — it’s absolutely worth seeing.

This summer, Mischief are bringing their first-ever musical, Thespians, to stages around the UK — and I can’t wait to see what they have in store!