The Snow Queen

It was a real pleasure for me to revisit the society after a few years away.  This show follows the story by Hans Christian Anderson closely and sets good against evil from the outset in the context of a Scandinavian village, with the original author as the narrator.  The staging was inventive in using different levels to very good effect, with the scenery very well created.  For example, the opening village scene was beautifully done, with good details but also lots of space for the villagers. The scene changes were very neatly done, while the use of a projector for some visual effects was magical: the glass shattering, snow falling and characters seen through a spyglass.

The script was very well used, with a lot of the humour emphasised, particularly by the Dame (Gran), who built up an excellent rapport with both cast and audience.  There were some lovely touches made with the addition of the snowball fight, the mince pies, crumpets and marshmallows scenes, while the dusting of the sleigh was brilliant.  Populating the garden with people dressed as dead grasses was very effective.

Music was played on a piano by the Director, with backing tracks used for some of the songs.  The simplicity of this arrangement worked very well, I felt, as singers were supported but not overpowered.   Lighting was very good, with cold blue tones used for the Snow Queen and slick changes between moods.  The sound worked well, apart from occasionally losing the odd voice, due to mic problems.  Choreography was very effective, as was the movement and interaction of characters throughout the show.  All those moves must have taken a lot of learning, but it is always a thrill to see a company moving so well together.

The costumes and make-up were excellent, especially for the Snow Queen, Snowdrop, Hans Christian Anderson, Gran and Henrick.  Indeed, it was a real pleasure to see the whole cast costumed so well with matching colours. except for those who have to stand out.  The make-up of the Snow Queen was remarkable, as were the various hats and wigs for Gran.  However, the similarity of costumes in no way hid the individuality of the cast members, who all played their roles with good energy and clarity.  Everyone did really well and I was very impressed by what a lovely cohesive and supportive group you are – a real community Society.  The delivery of the script was clear and expressive, the singing was very good and the whole production was entertaining and coherent. This was a great evening of music and drama– thank you all!

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