Snow White

Snow White is a fairy story and not really a pantomime and does not really have a Dame as such within the story, although in true and traditional style this version has included all the classic characters, a larger than life dame, a couple of comedy goodies and a couple of comedy baddies.

If I had to sum up this production in one word it would be LOUD! The canned music both before the performance started and during the show was almost literally ear-splitting and really quite uncomfortable.

It was played to some good scenery and the costumes throughout were very good.  The majority of the cast obviously took the production very seriously – and it showed – everything was well-drilled and spot-on timing wise so obviously well-rehearsed, and I simply MUST mention the ‘If I were not upon the stage’ number performed by 6 or 7 principals which was so well drilled and presented very well – quite the high spot of the production for me!

It looked as if everyone on stage was thoroughly enjoying themselves throughout the production with plenty of happy smiling faces – so the audience did as well!

The Dwarves were well-played by youngsters all of whom were comfortable and confident and appeared quite ‘at home’ on the stage, although vocally perhaps they could have been a little stronger.   The wicked Queen was suitably wicked and was heartily boo-ed every single time she appeared. I must mention the Mirror – she was hysterical – the ‘throw-away’ arm movement combined with the scouse accent worked SO well.

Just a small mention to the backstage staff, so necessary to produce any show but particularly a pantomime – with children.   The matrons and chaperones, the teccies on the sound and light and of course the crew – all did a tremendous job and without such support there would be no show!

One small note of caution – ‘personal’ and unscripted asides and ad libs are only funny if the audience can hear them – otherwise there is a danger of them becoming an irritant.

So my thanks to every single person connected with this super show- you carried the audience with you all the way – children can be a very difficult audience to please but you certainly appeared to manage that – so mission accomplished – well done!

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