UK TV review: Hannah Waddingham: Home for Christmas
Review Overview
Hannah and guests
8Jazz
8Jokes
8David 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.