Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

Lyme Regis Pantomime Society

Written by Peter Denyer

Directed by Sarah Causley

Musical Director: Lauren Good

Choreography by Amanda Rattenbury-Davies & Sarah Causley

The Woodmead Halls – Lyme Regis

Wednesday 20th February 2019

As to be expected from this Company the production opened to great atmospheric lighting and sound, quickly establishing the character of the wicked Queen and the role of the Magic Mirror, and encouraging audience participation from the start. The curtains went out to reveal a large chorus of villagers of varying ages all dressed in suitably coordinated costumes, and straight into an upbeat and well-choreographed opening number, setting the tone for a fun evening to come. As the story of this well-known tale unfolded the various characters were gradually introduced. Muddles the Court Jester made a striking entrance in an eye-catching costume, and immediately formed a good rapport with the audience. Herman the Henchman made a great impression in his pantomime debut, and although supposedly on the side of the “baddies” managed with his obvious natural sense of fun, and being the “new kid on the stage”, to endear himself to everyone – especially when he made the odd mistake, which always goes down so well in pantomime! Snow White and Prince Lorenzo, a young man in this production, made a very handsome couple and were played sincerely, both sang well which made for some lovely duets. An attractive Fairy Goodheart, also making her panto debut,  played the role as expected of all good fairies, thwarting the evil Queen and bringing Snow White her “true love’s kiss”, ensuring that all ended “happily ever after” ! The Magic Mirror was simply but effectively staged using a flat carried on and off in the black-outs by the actor playing the part, but still gave the Queen plenty to vent her anger against, and this she certainly did! Of course the moment we had all been waiting for finally arrived, and when the Dwarfs made their entrance they most certainly did not disappoint – in fact they rather stole the show! All seven were dressed alike but in different colours and with odd personal touches to depict their very different characters – oh and yes - it was all played on their knees! As they shuffled around the stage, with the little false legs attached to their costumes swaying in unison, they brought the house down! Their rendition of “Little People” from Les Misérables was just right, and each and every one lived up to the individual characters of their names, from the Prof who most certainly led the team, and commanded the stage, (though not from a great height!) through Grumbly who could certainly complain about everything, right down to the silent little Loopy who found her voice at the very end and managed to have the last word! They were all superb!

Initially the script did seem rather thin on jokes, but did warm up as it went along with some appropriate and well received local and topical references. At times on the opening night there was a little too much pacing to and fro across the stage, somewhat reminiscent of Michael McIntyre, and while this did tend to distract from the story it could have been down to “first night” nerves. Notably absent too was the traditional pantomime “Dame”, quite often the Palace Cook or Nursemaid, and would have added some great banter and also given Muddles a foil to spark against. Obviously the author had decided not to include the character this time – shame.

However there were some striking effects in this production. The Diamond Mine was particularly memorable, and the Forest cloth was stunning, the Ghost Scene gave a good ending to Act I, and The Dwarfs’ Cottage scene was very effective. Costumes throughout were appropriate and eye-catching with an attractive blue and gold finale – well done as not every group manages to produce a “walk-down” change, and it does add to the “wow” factor.
Overall this was a well-crafted production with talented principals, an enthusiastic and energetic chorus, with excellent singing and dancing, a great trio of musicians, superb lighting and sound, and all clearly well supported by a dedicated and efficient back-stage team.

‘Tricia Barclay

NODA SW Representative District 6

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.