The Snow Queen

The Snow Queen was written and directed by Mary Portalska, I really liked the siren every time a Disney phrase was said.

Choreography from Emma Gilby was simple, which is not a criticism as I understand why this was done, however there were times I could not see everyone on the stage.

Jeremy Lovell did a good job with the music I particularly enjoyed the rewrites of some of the songs in the pantomime.

Sunniva (Zara Stuart) and Rae (McKenna Hunter) Sunniva’s apprentice were a different take on the traditional fairy character.  I felt Rae’s character had more impact on the story and McKenna did a good job for a young performer.  I am a pantomime traditionalist, and I do like rhyming couplets in the fairy immortal character I felt this was lacking.

Peter, Knut and Greta were played by young performers Harry Dobbs, Amelia Brown and Rosie Lovell.  All delivered there lines well and I felt that Rosie had a lovely voice when singing.  Amelia tried hard but unfortunately at times I felt she lacked experience working with the audience.

Dame Helga played by Simon Parr, was a traditional dame who had the experience to work an audience, I personally enjoyed the attention during “let’s get physical”.  I also liked his different costumes, there were very in keeping with each scene and well made.

Peter Farrell was Mayor Ikeasson and he played this part well, being the bumbling authority figure.

Erika (Francine Ross) and Ernest (Adam Grant) played the comedy duo.  Adam impressed me with his comic timing and the way he played the mayor is coming running joke.  Adam is one I am looking forward to watching in the future.  The comedy routines were well written they just lacked pace.

Frostina The Snow Queen was portrayed by Clare Kula, I felt she played the villain well, maybe she just needed to soak in the boos more and interact with the audience more.  Her sidekick Crow was played by Michael Hunter, again another young performer but he was confident and delivered his lines well.

The set was built by Digswell Players and as always it was well thought and well designed. I always like how Digswell players turn a limited space into something special.

Thank you to Digswell Players for their hospitality.

Scott Welch

NODA Representative - NODA East District 9

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