SNOW WHITE & THE SEVEN DWARFS

I was lucky to be able to see the two final performances of Snow White, in what was a traumatic week for the Society, but they carried on in the true tradition of ‘the show must go on’, and I really commend them for that.

It was good to see the first production in the newly taken over and refurbished Library Theatre, at one stage we thought this facility would be lost to us, but so good that Griffin Players were back in their traditional home.

I liked the lighting effects, particularly in the castle, but there were some times when the back of the stage did not appear to be as well lit as it could have been, but no faulting the overall effects and good pyros.

Sound was good throughout, we heard everyone well.  Good balance between stage and band.

Musically good, from the choice of numbers to the performance of them – all were kept fairly short, so very well done.  The band came into its own during the dance numbers, where it could play full out!

For myself, I would have liked to have seen fewer blackouts, but I enjoyed the use of the different backcloths which are inherent in a Griffins panto.  Costumes were mostly good.

Olivia Lynn gave us a charming Snow White, giving her the chance to show off her lovely voice, and Alex Parsons as Prince Charming was a good foil, their voices blended well, I enjoyed their musicality and relationship.

Richard Chatterley was once again a ‘lovely’ Dame Delia – a different type of Dame, in that he was very ladylike, although he took the chance to let rip at times, a fun and enjoyable performance.

Lorna Trapp was a stylish Wicked Queen, nicely evil, creating a good opening to the show. 

The five Fairies were interesting – a good grouping, led by Melanie Ramsey as Daphne Diamond, along with Carla Pointing (Emerald), Kyra Spratley (Pearl), Allanah Rogers (Sapphire), and the inimitable Peri Lynn as Ruby.  Peri really gave her all as the ditzy Ruby, getting good interaction with the audience, and a completely full-on character – very well done.

I really liked Alex Currie (Alfie), he had a slight diffidence about him, but that said got a good rapport with the audience and sang very well.

The three Princes, Farquaad (Kate Johnson), Mario (Cheryl Desborough) and Juan (Anna Woods), all gave excellent portrayals, emphasising their idiosyncrasies and creating a really fun group.  Their musical trio was a highlight of the show, beautifully sung with some great harmonies.

Debbie Cavanagh (Helga) and Ben Jaggers (Magic Mirror) helped the story along well.

The ladies ensemble were confident, and everyone did credit to the choreography, which suited the feel of the piece.

Team Emerald and Team Pearl featured eight lovely children in each – they all seemed to relish their parts, and spoke well.  It’s great to see our little people being so involved and obviously loving it, fully supported by their enthusiastic families.

A good family pantomime, with much to recommend it – well done to everyone involved.

Nova Horley

NODA Representative - NODA East District 3

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