The Snow Queen

Congratulations to everyone involved with this production. The director together with the choreographer created a first class performance for this Sheffield Youth Company. The music for principals and ensemble was well chosen.

The simplistic set allowed the 40 young people to use the small stage with ease, and the company tackled Alan Frayn's adaptation of the Hans Christian Andersen story really well.

Hans Christian Andersen (Sam McElhatten) acted as Narrator - his speaking diction was very clear. The Snow Queen (Harriet Wade) with a beautiful costume, 'ice looking' make-up and long white wig, was as icy as the title suggests weaving her evil spell to kidnap Gerda's friend Kai (played by Carys Thomas and Luke Speddings respectively) - these two characters were the Principal Girl and Boy of the piece who sang and acted with confidence. Granny Fanny-Annie (James Godfrey) - a typical pantomime Dame character, whose finale costume was amazing. Helmut (Gerda's cousin) and the Simple Simon of the piece was played by Ethan Carley with good characterisation. Snowdrop - the Spirit of Spring played by Emma Godfrey, was the typical 'good fairy'.  Blossom (Jess Goh) as the Spring Flower Lady interpreted her part very well. Henrik, the Queen's henchman (Dylan Lambert) remained in character throughout. 

Costumes were excellent - the cast (particularly the ensemble) having so many changes. Lighting was good - just right for pantomime - full stage when it needed to be yet very subtle at the appropriate time.

Well done, and good luck for your forthcoming 2015 productions.

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