Thai Musical's Fairytale Journey: Sweet Melodies, Thin Story

The Christmas Dream, a Thai musical directed by Paul Spurrier, offers a blend of fairytale optimism and lush orchestral arrangements. The narrative follows Lek, a 10-year-old girl who escapes an abusive stepfather after he fatally attacks her mother. Armed with her doll Bella and her mother's spectral guidance, Lek journeys from Thailand's northern hills to Bangkok.

Spurrier's affection for the musical genre is evident, particularly in rural scenes evoking the charm of The Sound of Music. Choreography adds a dynamic visual flair, notably during Lek's introduction to Bangkok's competitive business world, which features a vibrant sequence with business professionals. However, the music, while lushly orchestrated, is criticized for being lyrically and musically anodyne.

Despite its visual splendor and optimistic tone, the musical struggles with a thin storyline. The music often overcompensates for narrative weaknesses, with substantial adversity only present at the beginning and end. While younger audiences may appreciate the general optimism, the exotic setting cannot mask an underlying blandness for older viewers.