Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

Priory Players brought the magic of pantomime to Ossett Town Hall with their production of Alan Frayn’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.  From the lively opening fronted by Eliza Keane as Snow White it was clear this was going to be an upbeat and engaging production.

Katie Bradshaw, as Fairy Fortune, was a stunning fairy with wonderful poise and in whom the audience could clearly have great faith that good would overcome evil.   Faye Benning was a very evil Queen Avarice and her numerous costume changes showed the Queen’s glamourous side which is an integral part of the tale. However, in the costume department James Bradley as Edna Bucket was the most glamourous of housekeepers and ensured that all eyes were on him as he strutted his stuff as the panto dame.  Bradley worked well with the energetic Chuckles (Paul Tattersfield) who was a ridiculously active palace Jester, Chuckles.

There was more humour from Justice Quill (Jess Dickinson) who provided the great ‘straight’ part of the duo to the hapless and slightly hopeless, Scribbles (Scott Colliar- Grint).  This couple worked well together and most definitely understood the importance of timing.  Hugo Taylor and Ash Abbott supported the story line with their key roles as Slurp, the Queen’s henchman and Merlina, the spirit of the mirror respectively.  Now is an apt time to mention the very clever mirror, beautifully crafted and utilising digital messages from Merlina via a huge ‘Apple Ipad’ – bringing the story up-to-date.

Grace Wassell was a confident Prince Ferdinand who managed to retain royal decorum during the very funny picnic scene, despite the best efforts of Edna and Chuckles.  The Seven Dwarfs made a fabulous entrance through the auditorium with strong voices and confident character acting.  Congratulations to Freya Harding as Brainy, Imogen Ennis as Smiley, Erin Wainwright as Dozy, Evie Sadler as Grumbly, Emma Mort as Blushful, Darcy Gibson as Snoozy and Chloe Oldroyd as Sniffle.   The dwarfs had a lovely relationship with Snow White who was beautifully played by Eliza Keane.  She really was a super principal girl who totally captured the essence of this princess.  Two of the show highlights included Keane singing ‘Once Upon a Time’ as the lullaby for the dwarfs and the beautiful montage at the end of ‘Whistle While You Work’ – a routine which also demonstrated the strong dancing ability of Snow White and her dwarfs.

Throughout the production the youth chorus were absolutely on top of their game, with great costumes and super choreography, their smiles and strong dance moves lit up the stage.  The Choreographers were drawn from the young cast and congratulations to the Players for having the confidence in them, but also to the Choreography Team for coming up with super numbers to suit the ages and abilities of those performing.

The show was enhanced by excellent light, sound and special effects.  The set was swiftly and effectively moved by the crew and included a very glamourous boudoir for Avarice.   Singing was strong throughout, supported by Musical Director Joel Griffin on the keyboard and accompanied by a live band.  The production finished with a stunning black, red and silver finale and most definitely ended as it had started – on a high note!

Congratulations to Director - Gillian Shelton, Producer - Malcolm Trigg, the Performers, Production Team, Backstage Crew, Front of House Team and the Committee on an excellent, fun and upbeat production.  

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