Le Journal

Unicorn theatre, LondonThis exuberant adaptation of Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen’s picture book moves with the rhythm of a child’s racing imaginationNever mind what’s hidden inside the wrapping paper, here’s a bigger mystery: how does Santa go down the chimney? Mac Barnett’s 2023 picture book of the same name appeals to inquisitive young readers by offering a festive selection of breaking-and-entering techniques. Does he find the key under the flower pot, post himself through the letterbox, even swim in through the taps? Jon Klassen’s illustrations feature a pack of reindeer, with inscrutable expressions, watching Santa’s increasingly wacky antics.Directing his own adaptation for the Unicorn’s co-production with Told By an Idiot, Paul Hunter follows the book’s rhythm of a child’s racing imagination, with each far-fetched idea mooted, discarded, then swiftly replaced by another. He turns the book into a sort of variety show, with volunteers from the audience occasionally cast as Santa’s little helpers.At Unicorn theatre, London, until 3 January Continue reading...

Violence erupts in series based on Patrick Radden-Keefe’s award-winning book. Plus: poignant memories are evoked in The Marvellous Miniature Workshop. Here’s what to watch today9pm, Channel 4First shown on Disney+, this brutal, gripping drama tells the story of IRA volunteer Dolours Price. Based on Patrick Radden Keefe’s award-winning book, it begins with the abduction of Belfast mother of 10 Jean McConville in 1972. Meanwhile, as violence erupts, Dolours swears she isn’t getting involved … It stars Maxine Peake as the older Dolours, and Lola Petticrew, who recently crushed hearts in Trespasses, as the younger. Hollie Richardson Continue reading...