Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs At Mayflower Southampton Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Lily B
Press night at The Mayflower Theatre for their brand new Panto “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” opened with a bang! “Oh yes it did!” And what a feast for the senses it was – with non- stop action, entertainment and drama from start to finish. With stunning musical performances, slapstick and comedy gold throughout, audience members were treated to extravagant show spectacular, a glorious explosion of colour and sound.
A clever casting, with the ever-entertaining Ashley Banjo and Diversity (Prince Ashley and the Royal Guard) returning for their seventh appearance in the world of Panto. They were joining Panto Royalty Christopher Biggins (Man in the Mirror), the hilarious Kev Orkian (Muddles), the villain we all loved to hate, Rachel Stanley (Queen Dragonella) and the beautiful Kirsty Ingram (Snow White). Joining the cast were the Magnificent Seven and their name says it all – they brought comedy, fun and charm to the production.
With exciting pyrotechnics, flashes of fire and exciting explosions throughout, audiences of all ages couldn’t fail to be entertained. The standout star of the show had to be Muddles, the court jester to Queen Dragonella. He was hilarious from start to finish. His comedic timing was second to none and he worked the audience like a consummate professional. He alongside the Diversity crew were a clever pairing, with a hilarious ten minute slapstick showdown of “If I wasn’t a Royal Guard” which had everyone in the audience roaring with laughter. Add Christopher Biggins to the equation with a segment including multiple outfit changes and what more could one need?
Diversity were a very welcome addition to the stage this year. High energy dance routines were intertwined throughout the show and added a different element. The routines elevated and complemented the show.
There were a couple of moments during the panto that took my breath away – transported me back to my childhood, to a magical time where imagination met real life and where anything was possible. With modern technology utilised to create visual wonder, the audience was treated to a magical masterpiece and with a snow machine thrown in, tears flowed. It was simply magical. I won’t give too much away but the gasps throughout the audience, alluded to the fact that everyone felt the same.
The live orchestra led by Musical Director Anthony England carried us on a musical journey through the 16 spectacular scenes alongside the 10 piece dance ensemble who stunned us all with a glittering, stunning, fast-paced display of choreography, costumes and finery to top off the visual delights of the show. I felt real disappointment when the panto came to an end. Don’t miss out. Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs; it really is the fairest panto in the land!
Rating: 5/5
https://www.mayflower.org.uk/whats-on/snow-white-pantomime-2023/
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is running at The Mayflower Theatre, Southampton 9 – 31 December 2023
Tickets start from £19.50
To book tickets please call the Box Office on 02380 711811 or visit www.mayflower.org.uk