How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney? | Unicorn Theatre

How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney? is a euphoric and imaginative piece of theatre that really is for everyone aged from 2 - 102. This show is based on the children’s picture book by Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen. And if you’re anything like me, then you’re probably thinking - how can a children’s picture book be turned into a 60-minute show? Through the magic of theatre, of course!

We join Santa’s reindeer to see all of the different ways in which Santa might go down the chimney. Does he jump? Does he squeeze? Does he transform into a mouse? And my favourite question: how does Santa get into a block of flats?!

This is the type of show that reminds me of the power of live theatre. Because all the elements of great theatre - set, costume, props, sound, and acting - come together to make a truly merry show. There is something here for everyone.

Watching this show amongst children was magical as well, as they were so incredibly engaged. There were bursts of ‘It’s behind you’ and ‘Hi Santa’ sprinkled throughout the night, and the performers were beautifully adept at handling this kind of live feedback.

Even the older child in the corner, who kept saying ‘What is happening?!’ throughout the first half, seemed enthralled by the end. And that’s what this show does. It melts away your cynicism and your questions. Until all you want to do is clap and sing along and throw yourself into the Christmas spirit.

The extremely talented ensemble cast brings this show to life, with everyone getting a chance to play the jolly man himself. Giulia Innocenti, Nathan Queeley-Dennis, and Mikey Ureta all bring something amazingly unique to Santa. And by switching the actors up every single time, it keeps this show fresh and captivating. Ureta brings his amazing dance moves. Innocenti brings her fantastic physicality. And Queeley-Dennis brings his amazing comedic timing.

But Frida Cæcilia Rødbroe - she truly shines in the show. Rødbroe plays quite a few of the side characters, and her vocal ability alone is mesmerising. She plays so many characters, including a very convincing baby and even an iconic and temperamental dog. All of this, combined with the fantastic music choices and set design, makes for some hilarious moments.

So yes, this is a children’s show. But through the truly magical combination of theatre elements, including standout acting, we get something enchanting - for the young and the old and everyone in between. And maybe, just maybe, even the grown-ups in the room can melt their Grinch-like hearts and dream of a time when Santa came down their chimney and spread Christmas cheer.

How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney? plays at the Unicorn Theatre until 03rd January 2026.

Tickets and More Information

★★★★★ (5*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Manuel Harlan