The Snow Queen

The Snow Queen by Ron Nicol is a whimsical and heartfelt adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairy tale. This version was just the right length and was easily accessible for even the youngest children and brought the well-loved story with its fantastical elements to life with charm, depth and the most engaging performances by a talented cast. Each performer brought their spark to the story, helping to create a world of magic, adventure and icy mischief, and told a story for all ages to enjoy. The skilled team at Leeds Children’s Theatre, with great direction by Tony Hutchinson, combined with the production skills of Manda Lister, has infused new life into the familiar story and created a captivating experience for the audience.

The visual allure of the production, orchestrated by talented designer Dan Dainter with his dramatic set design combined with the lighting skills of a true theatre stalwart, Peter Waddicor, and the wizard sound and projection expert, Chris Beardwell, was simply brilliant. Together with Stage Manager, Janine Walker, and a team of constructors and set painters—Dan Turton, Freya Almond-Palmer, Edd Grinham, Cathy Hart, Sarah Midgeley, and Mandi Rugg—they produced a technically excellent show with a sparkling topping of snow. Completing the all-important visuals, Jane Curtin and her hardworking team provided a wonderful array of costumes—with the Snow Queen looking absolutely stunning and the various creatures and characters creatively imagined—and then the detailed makeup gave that special finish to the characters.

Congratulations also must go to the Chaperones, Christine Greaves & Hayley Smith, who not only look after the youngsters so well but must have had their work cut out ensuring timely entrances with everyone looking just perfect with not a sequin, sparkle or feather out of place. Special mention must go out to all performers, as everyone could be clearly heard, with excellent diction, tone and clarity, whatever the speed of delivery. Every one of you clearly believed in your character and worked well with each other as a team.

At the heart of this production is Amelie Knight’s portrayal of Gerda, a captivating performance.  Amelie brought sincerity and strength to her character, capturing Gerda’s determination, kindness, and vulnerability.

Opposite Gerda Jess Barrett’s portrayal of Kai is equally impressive with a nicely contrasting performance as a carefree, warm-hearted, playful young boy and later he was cold and distant one due to the Snow Queen’s enchantment, which had slowly consumed him. Jess captured Kai’s inner turmoil well.

Rosie Walding, in the role of the Snow Queen, commanded the stage with style and a certain edge of coldness.

Jane Curtin had that warm, homely feel to her grandmother character, nicely achieved.

Diane McHale-Fannon framed the story and engaged the audience well as the storytelling Troll.

Giving a lovely Royal performance, Olivia Mincher and Elan Browne, were kind and generous to Gerda as The Prince and Princess. They contrasted well with the coldness of the Snow Queen. Sophia Yazmin Field gave a good performance as the Lady in Waiting.

Jasper relished the role of the Reindeer producing a quirky, noble performance. Jasper showed a good understanding and feel to his portrayal, whilst keeping the Reindeer grounded and believable.

Linda McHale brought her undoubted experience to the role of Lapp Woman.

Oscar Baker entertained as the Old Hag and Finn Woman.

Nivedha Balaji gave a good, characterful performance as the Enchantress.

The Robbers, Lea Nnando, Charlotte Routledge and Lydia Davy, brilliantly led by Rory Howe, certainly made their presence felt and gave wonderfully threatening performances.

Ollie Grinham and Emily Hart were great characters as the Wild and Tame feathered escorts. Crow-like champions of “Cawwwww”.

James Hart and Steve Morrell provided some first-class comedy. Working brilliantly together, these two hapless soldiers had a great rapport, and their comic timing ensured that every bit of comedy was squeezed out of their comical interludes.

Jez Davey, as the long-suffering Sergeant had to develop an equally strong character, which he did, and this worked out really well, providing a hilariously funny highlight to the story. Judith Bentham, as the small penguin, was an absolute delight to watch, making the most of every second of her all too brief journey across the frozen North giving a very memorable performance.

A special well done to all the members of the Ensemble who played their parts confidently and created some very interesting contrasting characters as Trolls, Children and Villagers. Your characterisations added depth to the storytelling and completed the show nicely.

 

Congratulations to everyone at Leeds Children’s Theatre for working together to produce not only great entertainment for the whole family but also for offering incredible experiences for your members, both young and old, whilst creating a memorable piece of theatre.

 

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