Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Alhambra Theatre Bradford Review

Reviewed by Helen Noble

When you think you have seen it all! The Alhambra Theatre in Bradford yet again produce a spectacular show with Yorkshire’s biggest pantomime “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”.

‘MIRROR, MIRROR, ON THE WALL, WHO’S THE FAIREST OF THEM ALL’

SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS!

When the Magic Mirror proclaims Snow White the fairest one of all, she has to hide from the Queen in the forest, with the help of her new friends the lovable seven dwarfs – Doc, Sneezy, Grumpy, Happy, Bashful, Sleepy, and Dopey.

Starring comedy legend Billy Pearce as Muddles, legendary hilarious funny man Paul Chuckle as Oddjob, Faye Tozer (Strictly Come Dancing Finalist & Pop Band Steps) as Queen Lucretia, Sarah Goggin as Princess Snow White (previous Cinderella & Jasmine) and Matthew Croke as Prince William.

On arriving at the theatre, Christmas had really begun, snow falling in the doorway, a very large beautiful decorated Christmas tree in the foyer, Santa Claus welcoming everyone as they arrived, taking time to speak to the children, handing out small gifts and you are able to take photos, the sound of the school choir singing added to the festive build-up of the show.

Me, my husband and our two granddaughters, aged 6 and 4, were given seats on row L in the stalls so we had a good view of the stage. The booster seats for the children are great for them to get a better view these can be found in the doorway on the way to your seats. The staff are very welcoming as always and anything you require or need to know they are more than happy to help.

The annual Alhambra Theatre pantomime is so well known and loved. Billy Pearce returns for his 21st performance with yet more of his mad-cap comedy, teamed up with the legendary funny man Paul Chuckle. They truly put their heart and souls into their performances.

The main stage was set with the Snow White story book cover, other scenery was smoothly interchanged and included the Seven Dwarfs cottage with their seven little beds. There was an array of fabulous costumes and we loved how they portrayed the dwarfs and the small forest animals.

Muddles (Billy Pearce) had everyone joining in as soon as he came onto the stage, he was so funny that your sides hurt with laughing not only the children but the adults too especially with his witty humour, he also had children and adults from the audience up on stage.

The special effects of muddles on a moped were very impressive not only the children were left amazed.

The appearance of the magic mirror gave a magical mystical feeling but I feel the figure within the mirror could have been portrayed through something less scary looking as it is a show with children attending, unfortunately it was too much for my 4 year old granddaughter, who ended up back at the car with grandad halfway through as she said she didn’t like it, and wanted to go home, but she did say she loved the bits with Snow White.

As well as the story of Snow White there are other scenes in between which are unexpected but are totally fantastic and have you laughing in hysterics. I even caught a marshmallow!

I highly recommend this show it is a must see for all the family.

The show lasted 2hrs 15mins including interval.

The Alhambra is a traditional theatre, the main theatre building is modern with bright lights which not only look fabulous but makes the building easy to find on a dark night.

On the ground floor you will find the ticket kiosk and a kiosk for purchasing soft drinks and sweets. On the first floor there is an impressive bar/cafe area, also a merchandise kiosk. The staff are very welcoming and helpful.

The venue has disabled access and blue badge onsite parking can be found to the left of the buildings entrance it says no entry but there is a buzzer system to allow entry.

There are plenty of carparks within a couple of minutes walking distance from the venue,  one on Sharpe Street which is just up the hill from the Alhambra, If using an NCP car park if you inform the ticket office on arrival they give you an additional parking ticket to enable a discount on your parking fee.

Rating: 5/5

Tickets cost from £16 to £41.50 (booking fees may apply).

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is at the Alhambra Theatre in Bradford from 14 December 2019 to 26 January 2020, for more information or to book tickets visit www.bradford-theatres.co.uk or call the box office on 01274 432000.

Alhambra Theatre, Morley Street, Bradford, BD7 1AJ | 01274 432000