Snow White

Snow White

Pickering Musical Society

 

Director Luke Arnold, Musical Director Clive Wass & Choreographer Rebecca Neacsu

Kirk Theatre

17th January 202

Pickering Musical Society’s Snow White at the Kirk Theatre was a glittering example of just how good traditional pantomime can be when it’s done with care, creativity, and a huge amount of heart. Under the direction of Luke Arnold, this production stood out as one of the very best pantos I’ve seen at the Kirk Theatre, delivering laughs, spectacle, and warmth in equal measure.

Visually, the show was a real treat for the eyes. The scenery was vibrant and imaginative, with clever metamorphic sets that added extra depth and dimension to each scene. These seamless transitions were a testament to the hard work and skill of the stage crew, who kept the show flowing effortlessly. The costumes were a cohesive, colourful masterpiece, perfectly suited to the fairytale world and bursting with panto flair.

Musically, the production was in extremely safe hands with Musical Director Clive Wass, who led the cast to some beautifully sung performances while also conducting an enthusiastic and lively live band. The musical numbers were further enhanced by Rebecca Neacsu’s choreography, which was nicely incorporated throughout the show. The inclusion of the Sarah Louise Ashworth School of Dance once again proved to be a winning combination, with numerous excellently executed pieces that elevated the musical numbers and added polish and excitement.

As you’d hope from a great pantomime, the show was packed full of everything audiences expect – slapstick comedy, audience participation, cheeky jokes, larger-than-life characters, good-versus-evil storytelling, and plenty of “he’s behind you!” moments that delighted both children and adults alike.

The cast was stacked with high-class comedy characters. Courtney Brown was hilarious throughout as Helga, delivering consistent laughs. Will Smithson gave a wonderfully characterised performance as Billy the Bear, with a charming Wizard of Oz scarecrow-style feel. Sue Smithson steered the show with great authority as Fairy Dew Drop, providing a strong and reassuring presence.

Marcus Burnside was, as ever, a joy to watch as Dame Dumpling, bringing flamboyance, impeccable timing, and fantastic audience connection. The villains were perfectly matched, with Paula Cook devilishly delightful as Queen Lucretia, supported superbly by John Brooks, who it was lovely to see back treading the boards as the Chamberlain.

The heroic side of the story was equally strong. Dannielle Long once again excelled as the dashingly brave Prince Valentine, while Alice Rose was perfectly cast as Snow White, capturing all the correct mannerisms and characterisation of a classic fairytale princess. Jack Dobson was simply exceptional as Fritz, bringing energy, enthusiasm, and resilience to the role, never faltering even when classic panto moments meant things strayed slightly off script.

A special shout-out must go to the Team A Dwarves, who were absolutely fantastic. Annie Kirk as Prof, Hannah Zmudzka as Timorous, Ethan Bastow as Grouchy, Pippa Mitchell as Snoozy, Sophie Price as Tishoo, Florence Gent as Barmy, and Hope Curtis as Lucky all held their own alongside the rest of the cast, showing excellent stage presence and confidence throughout.

Overall, Snow White was a joyous, colourful, and highly entertaining pantomime that showcased the very best of Pickering Musical Society. With strong direction, stunning visuals, superb music, and a cast clearly having the time of their lives, this was pantomime at its finest.

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