Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Theatre Royal Plymouth Review

DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW

Reviewed by Linda Curtain

Dark wintery nights and an abundance of twinkling fairy lights can only mean one thing – it’s Panto time again and what better way to kick off the festive season than a visit to Theatre Royal Plymouth for their annual pantomime extravaganza. Their choice this year of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is sure to be a hit with all the family – a traditional tale given the Theatre Royal’s magical touch.

Arriving at the theatre last evening, the theatre looked so festive with the windows adorned with twinkling lights and an eye catching image of Snow White’s poisoned apple projected onto the building. Situated on the beautifully decorated Royal Parade, access to the theatre is easy whether by foot, bus or car with several nearby car parks.
The foyer was extremely busy and the excitement of the children and the expectations of the audience was palpable as we were directed by the helpful front of house staff to the auditorium and were immediately engrossed in the wintery scene set out on stage.

From the amazing opening introducing the well-loved troupe of such talented dwarfs – who captured everyone’s hearts – to the spectacular finale, this panto has it all – comedy, stunning costumes, brilliant lighting effects and scenery all woven into a well written script.

Everyone knows the original storyline but be prepared for a few Theatre Royal twists! Local references abound and add comedy to the production and the amount of subtle adult comedy was just right.

Briana Craig made the perfect Snow White – full of innocence and charm. Prince William (of West Hoe of course!) was played by Scott Maurice and interacted well with Snow White and Queen Dragonella. Rob Rinder as the Man in the Mirror was brilliant appearing each time to a blast of music and wearing a very glittery costume. Andy Ford never ceases to entertain with his character Muddles adding endless comedy to the pantomime. Lady Samantha (Snow White’s Governess) is played by the much loved and talented local actor Samuel Holmes. A brilliant actor with outstanding stage presence and such precise diction – every word projected and clear even in the crazy tongue twister scene. His comedy timing is amazing!

And finally the great Lesley Joseph as Queen Dragonella. She was such a fearsome, dynamic character with a good connection to the audience. The magnificent Seven dwarfs were great with well projected voices and each individual character shone through. This superb core of main characters were well supported by a talented ensemble of dancers. It was lovely to see a small team of junior dancers again getting the experience of dancing on stage as part of the company – a memory which will last a lifetime for them.

The pantomime was brilliantly staged with a breath taking flying sleigh, a magic mirror and the illusion of falling snow. Exquisite costumes – designed by Teresa Nalton and slick choreography by Joanna Goodwin certainly added the wow factor to the production.

Director Jonathan Kiley has worked well to form a tight knit company who gave an outstanding performance.
What a great production. With all the necessary components – music, comedy, glitz and amazing scenery – giving a feel good factor to the evening.

Such an ideal start to the festive season!

Well done Theatre Royal Plymouth for another pantomime extravaganza.

Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £20
Snow White is at Theatre Royal Plymouth from 13th December until 11th January 2025
For more information or to book tickets visit www.theatreroyal.com.