David Farnor | On 27, Dec 2023

Christmas jazz. The two words go together as well as “Hannah” and “Waddingham”. So it’s no surprise that, following the hit success of Ted Lasso on Apple TV, the tech giant has given her a holiday special to share some sassy seasonal tunes.

Waddingham, who spent a large chunk of her childhood in the boxes watching her mum as a mezzo, is on home turf in London’s Coliseum, and it shows – she’s as comfortable and confident on the stage as you’d expect for a West End and Broadway veteran, but also sincerely and noticeably excited to get the chance to tread the boards in a new way for 45 minutes.

With an 18-piece band accompanying her, she leads a variety show that features the London Gay Men’s Chorus, the Fabulous Lound Singers, Sam Ryder, Luke Evans and Leslie Odom Jr. Each of these numbers are a treat, ranging from rocking romps to soulful blues, and it’s testament to Waddingham’s class and talent that she makes sure each duet gives her guests as much a chance to shine as she does.

But of course, not far from the spotlight are her co-stars from Ted Lasso, and the cast are clearly having a ball at playing semi-versions of themselves with knowing nods to the footballing series. Phil Dunster leans into his Jamie Tartt-esque hearthrob role as he winks to the camera, with Nick Mohammed is laugh-out-loud funny as he once again nails his knack for slightly awkward comedy skits. Brett Goldstein and Juno Temple are good value for behind-the-scenes gags, while Brendan Hunt singing ‘Joy to the World’ the festive treat you didn’t know you needed.

With a packed house including people from Game of Thrones as well as Ted Lasso, not to mention stage shows aplenty – and Hannah’s own family, in a moving moment – the result sashays through lighthearted entertainment with a irresistible twinkle. It’s when Waddingham finishes a song and then starts snarling and whooping at the crowd and colleagues in a way that only she could that you truly appreciate just how unique and herself she is – this delightful outing is a long overdue opportunity for her to announce that to the world. Unwrap it immediately. Then watch it another two times for good measure.

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