The Snow Queen
Northern Stage
Thursday 5th December
There have been lots of different versions and interpretations of this classic story throughout the years, more recently being the inspiration for Walt Disney's Frozen.This adaptation tells of the townsfolk of Stifle, and as the name suggests they have barricaded themselves in behind a wall from the threat of the outside. They lead a restrictive way of life with very strict rules that must be followed in order to keep themselves protected from what peril lies beyond.
The tale is of, and told by, Gerda (played by Lauren Waine) and the friendship she forms with a boy called Kai (Gregor Mackay); a newcomer to the school she attends. As their friendship grows and flourishes Kai starts to question all the rules and restrictions - why are they not allowed to speak openly of their hopes and wishes and what exactly is beyond the barricade?
One fateful night he speaks aloud of these things, climbs to where he shouldn't and he, along with other children of the town, goes missing. It is then that we enter the icy world of The Snow Queen. It is now up to Gerda, through her friendship and with strength and courage (and a snowglobe) to enter The Snow Queen's world and discover the fate of Kai and the others who are missing. Can she rescue them or will The Snow Queen get her wish of a perpetual winter?
What I loved about this show was that it felt magical throughout. It is a very lavish production, a
Many members of the cast took turns in playing different instruments too. This I particularly enjoyed, the musical score played live upstairs on the stage. Described as rustic and folky, the music really fitted the vibe of the production. The puppetry was used really effectively and made the stage become even more alive, especially when the reindeer appears.
The costumes were great, very colourful and quirky. Special mention must go to The Snow Queen. As she became more powerful her costumes became more and more stunning and spectacular.
There is a mild danger element to the story, but lots of interesting characters and lots of fun, merriment and humour included in the show too (its suitable for the whole family, great for ages 5+) Particular mention must go to the schoolteacher and strict disciplinarian Elsie Orr (Paula Penman) who for me provided the biggest laughs and played her part brilliantly.
To find out if Gerda fulfills her dream of playing a musical solo, and if she succeeds in her quest to stop The Snow Queen's plan and save Kai and the missing children, to discover if the people of Stifle will have a happy Christmas….The Snow Queen is on until 4th January 2020. I thoroughly recommend a visit to see it.
*Picture Credit: Pamela Raith Photography
Belinda Bekki-Winter
