Review of A Present for Jack – the Christmas Show at The Story Museum, Oxford
This morning, we had the pleasure of seeing the brand-new show at the Story Museum for Christmas – a present for Jack.
The show is a festive musical with three performers, who are on stage for the duration – one narrator/singer, one double bassist and one saxophonist – the latter two provide the music. The show is about a young boy called Jack on an exceptionally special mission – to write the perfect Christmas song for his father.
His dad Jack is famous we learn, from many nursery rhymes. Many of which are referred to at the beginning for the audience to chant along to. They are then taken through Jack’s journey of writing this song. We heard many lyrical tales about his dad, who climbed beanstalks and fought giants to find fortune.
The show is written and composed by David Gibb, who also plays Jack. David is at theatre maker, composer, writer and musical director. He is a popular performer who has built a loyal following across the UK. His composing and songwriting credits include the Royal Christmas Pudding, Luna loves library, Hansel and Gretel, and Tales from the Lighthouse. His last family musical Cinderella ice cream seller was nominated for a best family show at the list awards at Edinburgh Fringe this year. The other two performers are Oli Matthews on the clarinet, a freelance musician who also plays on the focus folk and jazz scene. Also we watched Sean Lowe, who plays the double bass – a musician who has played with numerous orchestras and ensemble is across the UK, also recently enjoying a spell of work on the Les Miserables UK tour.
The show is created by Little Seeds Music – a company that inspires young people and families through music and creativity. The company was founded in 2020 and aims to provide unforgettable musical experiences to enjoy as families. They produce shows across the UK and have been named checked by the Guardian, as providing one of the best pieces of theatre they have seen in 2020. Alongside their touring projects they also coordinate engagement opportunities and projects across the country.
My daughter and I enjoyed watching a present for Jack, albeit if she was a little young at four (the flyer recommends 5+). She did however sing some of the songs and enjoyed being brought into the story by Jack at one point. If I were to criticise anything it would be that they could have used a few more props to make the show a bit more eye-catching and attention-grabbing for little ones, as there were quite a few young children in the audience. Overall, I would recommend a visit though as something nice and Christmassy to do if you are visiting Oxford over the next week or so.
20 Dec – 30 Dec 2025 – Tickets
Ages 5+
The performance will last 60 minutes
Review by Leila Stocker, image credit The Story Museum
