The spirit behind the scenes at Thursford’s spellbinding Spectacular

Every year, the Thursford Christmas Spectacular transforms the quaint rural village of Thursford into a winter wonderland, enchanting audiences with its eclectic mix of singing, dancing, live music, comedy and exciting speciality acts. Stemming from humble origins as a small carol concert set in an old farm barn, this dazzling display has evolved over almost five decades to become the most magnificent festive event of its kind in Europe and one of the greatest Christmas productions in the world.

John Cushing OBE established the show in 1977 to preserve his late father’s collection of traction engines, steam rollers, and fairground rides. At age 84, he continues to take immense pride in directing the sparkling spectacle and enhancing the Thursford experience, supported by his dedicated sons George and Charlie, and a skilled creative team.

Planning an event of this magnitude is no easy feat, with the captivating Spectacular featuring over 80 different musical numbers, almost 5,000 costume items and a cast comprising more than 120 singers, dancers and musicians on a 130ft stage. For many involved in the production process, Christmas is a year-round affair, as John and his innovative team strive to deliver an even grander show each season. The introduction of opulent new costumes, mesmerising special effects and a state-of-the-art sound system made the 2023 event the most immersive in Thursford’s history, and this year’s showcase is set to raise the bar even higher.

“I began devising the 2024 production in early January, less than two weeks after the last season’s finale,” John explains. “I start with the music, sifting through hundreds of Christmas soundtracks to inspire concepts, themes, and emotions.”

The production process officially kicks off in February with an exciting debrief meeting in London, where John presents his imaginative ideas for the team to discuss and develop. By April, a final content meeting outlines musical numbers, special features and dance styles, paving the way for routine development, auditions, and costume design.

Casting is a critical part of the process and a monumental task, with roughly 2000 hopeful performers submitting applications. These are carefully reviewed by Casting Director Peter Savidge, Choreographer Tracey Iliffe, Cast Manager Colin Window, and Production Manager Karen Cull, who shortlist up to 500 dancers and singers for auditions at studios in London.

“We are lucky to attract an incredible wealth of talent from around the world,” says Colin, who’s been a passionate member of the production team for more than 27 years. “The selection process is stringent to ensure only the best candidates make it to the Thursford stage, with songs and routines made increasingly challenging until we find the 23 dancers, 58 singers, 30-piece orchestra and reserves needed to bring our truly unique Spectacular to life.”

Decisions must be finalised by the end of June to allow time for costumes to be handcrafted and fitted ahead of the intense rehearsal period, which commences with a flourish in late September when the cast arrive in Norfolk. Perfecting the show requires around six weeks of concentrated effort involving everything from spirited full-company warm-ups and rigorous physical training to precise technical run throughs, swift costume changes and meticulously rehearsed routines.

“The opening performance is both thrilling and nerve wracking because you don’t know how the audience will react. I usually have the production team around the back with me, watching eagerly as a year’s worth of hard work comes together right before our eyes,” John says, smiling. “A complete standing ovation is incredibly rewarding, and we share a terrific hug once the cheering begins. It’s an emotional experience since we all put our hearts into the show and end up feeling like one big family at the end. That sense of warmth, camaraderie and pure happiness embodies the spirit of Christmas.”

The Thursford Christmas Spectacular is more than just a show; it’s a cherished tradition that brings joy and wonder to thousands of visitors each year. The Cushings’ unwavering commitment to excellence ensures that each performance is a masterpiece of festive entertainment, with George and Charlie committed to honouring, enhancing and preserving the incredible experience envisioned by their father. As the lights dim and the curtains rise for another season, the memories made at Thursford will continue to warm hearts beyond the holidays.