Last night, after an early evening of trying to overcome the latest train strike and the interminable weather, I finally arrived back home to a warm and cozy fireplace only to be told that we were heading straight out again… This time “Hey Ho” off to Woking we go, to watch the New Victoria Theatre’s production of “Snow White and the Six Dwarfs”, No you heard me right, just read on……
Warwick Davis, The diminutive star of such Blockbusters as Star Wars, Willow and Harry Potter fame, started the proceedings by informing the packed audience that due to “Illness” we would be witnessing the “World Premiere” of Snow White and the 6 Dwarfs. “Oh No I hear you cry”, But did it affect the show? Not at all, In fact all 6 dwarfs were excellent with a special mention going to Annabelle Davis who played a very lovable “Loopy”.
This year’s show is traditional, and features all the classic ingredients of pantomime including, glittering costumes and amazing “trembling” sets, a mix of old and new songs, all mixed together with a healthy dollop of audience participation.
Although not widely known, Anne Smith as the Wicked Queen has a great stage-presence, whilst smiling through a sinister, scarlet-painted pout. She can also hold a tune and manages some rather nifty dance moves.
Mind Reader, Chris Cox as Muddles and West End actor Shaun Dalton as the Prince, ably support Melissa Potts’s Snow White. She has a pleasing voice that was unfortunately not used to maximum effect. Call me old fashioned, but give me a good old ballad, belted out by the heroine and I’m putty in your hands. But alas no such luck in this production.
The cast were ably supported by a small but excellent ensemble of professional dancers as well as a number of young performers from the local area. However, what made the night for me was Andy Ford’s “Herman the Henchman”. His good old-fashioned double-entendre’s had made me gasping and rolling my eyes at one stage, but he is without a doubt one very funny man and for me the real star of this show.
The show was mostly good. Not the greatest but good fun. The children in the audience seemed to thoroughly enjoy it and at the end of the day, pantomime should be for all Kids, both young and old.
Wishing you a Merry Christmas…
Reviewed by Neil Mcfarlane
Photo: Ian Olsson
SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS plays at the New Victoria Theatre until 8 January 2017
