Christmas was ablaze last night at the Palais Theatre in Melbourne, and what a night to remember it was! There truly was no better way to celebrate 2025 than under the stunning stage lights with Prinnie Stevens and Michael Boyd in The Christmas Spectacular.
There’s always an air of magic in December as the festive season creeps upon us. We know what’s in store. Summer and ice cream, sandy beaches, yummy food, wrapping presents, seeing Santa, and spending time with those we love.
Last night, a sea of excited families hustled around the edges of the iconic venue in St Kilda more than an hour before the event commenced. Decorated in elf ears, Christmas hats and all the bells and whistles, there was a surge of energy, noting brightly that the silly season was here.
Whispers amongst the children were all about the big man making an appearance. Parents were all smiles knowing they were about to witness something special. But the happiest buzz of all was the joy in everyone’s step, knowing that they were going to witness magic and carols. And you definitely couldn’t ask for anything more!
With the fabulous dancers leading the way, Prinnie Stevens made her entrance as the lights went up and the applause awakened every neighbouring suburb. She was divine in her vocals, which rang across the sky like the tinkling jingle of a sleigh. She brought such emotion and heartfelt words, all expressed so gracefully.
With flair and precision, Prinnie encouraged the crowd, and they clapped and sang along. My eldest daughter actually noted at that point, “Mum, she’s like Mariah Carey!” Every year around this time I always blast out that Merry Christmas album, so I can tell you there was no better compliment!
We then entered the story of The Nutcracker, but this was magical in a way that had never been done before. We had all sorts of tricks and illusions taking place. There were vanishing acts and surprises in boxes as the magnificent Michael Boyd took us on an entertaining journey.
With the help of a princess friend from the crowd, Boyd was masterful in making you question what you were seeing, and tested your understanding of gravity, disappearance and the summoning of snow. The shape that you make with your mouth as you smile, stunned at what you have witnessed, is the ‘ow’ in the word wow!
Hats off to Mr Boyd for giving that magical hope out to all the young families in the audience last night. There’s nothing more special than the gift of allowing one to believe dreams can come true. Especially during this time of year.
Heightening the show was the miraculous hula hoop act, for which every child in the audience will now request as a toy when they write out their Dear Santa letter! The hoops flew every which way with a luminous and glowing effect, as well as the slinky tricks. It was an absolute highlight. For a moment, my daughters and I felt we were in the land of the trolls, disco partying!
“It’s just so creative, isn’t it?” my youngest daughter turned to me and said, beyond excited, during the fanned feather numbers. I’m sure I’m going to need to ask Santa for one of those as well.
The show also features lyrapole spinning, swinging, and dangling. The entire audience at one point creates a sea of lights. It is the key to everything you wish for at Christmas time, with music for everyone and classic tunes you’ll walk out humming.
The Christmas Spectacular, like its name, is a spectacular evening and a highlight event for families to enjoy together. What a way to start December!
The Christmas Spectacular ran for two shows only on 6 December at the Palais Theatre, Melbourne. It is now touring the country. See dates below.
Tickets are available at the website link.
Website: https://thechristmasspectacular.com.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/the_christmas_spectacular/
Images supplied.
2025 Australian Tour Dates:
Newcastle 10 December, The Civic Theatre
Brisbane 13 – 14 December, The Fortitude Music Hall
Adelaide 17 December, Thebarton Theatre
Sydney 19 – 21 December, State Theatre
Canberra 22 – 23 December, Canberra Theatre Centre
