It's the time of year again to enjoy a pantomime, and the Churchill Theatre's annual production is always a welcome treat in our festive schedules. This season's star-studded production of ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' promises to deliver plenty of laughs and traditional festive fun for all the family.
‘Snow White' is headlined by CBeebies and ‘Strictly' favourite Dr Ranj, who plays the man in the mirror (essentially a male version of a fairy godmother), advisor to the evil Queen Dragonella (Britt Lenting). ‘Pop Idol' finalist Gareth Gates plays the handsome Prince Gareth, whose courtship of the lovely Princess Snow White (Laura Emmitt) threatens to be derailed by the evil Dragonella (boo, hiss). Thankfully, Snow White doesn't have to come up with all the answers herself. Her marriage to the Prince may yet be saved thanks to a little help from her friends, the seven dwarfs and Muddles, the court jester (Simon Fielding).
This production of ‘Snow White' follows all of the traditional plot points of the fairytale, but adds some original variations on a theme that it pulls off well – such as who ends up eating the poisoned apple. The stage sets, especially the dwarfs' cottage, are spectacular, and the colourful backdrops vividly create a sense of space. There are also some excellent visual effects, such as Muddles soaring into the sky on a motorbike.
There are several other standout aspects of the show. Simon Fielding deserves special praise for his brilliant and energetic performance as Muddles. It's his job to keep the children entertained, interested and energised, whilst also making the adults laugh. Not an easy job, but Fielding makes it look effortless and fun. The whole production lifts every time he comes onto the stage. Dr Ranj is also a natural at panto, understanding his role and developing a good rapport with the other cast members. Britt Lenting has everything you need from a theatrical villainess too, from a strong singing voice to a chilling wicked laugh, and she boasts the best and most operatic costumes. The routine in which they count down the days of Christmas with a series of props is a standout moment of silliness and slapstick hilarity.
We were less impressed with Gareth Gates, who was fine and plausible as the Prince, but who seemed reluctant to get out of second gear. This was especially telling when he delivered a lacklustre solo rendition of ‘Unchained Melody'. While the handsome Prince is a functional part in panto, low energy from one leading actor can adversely affect the whole show. There was also a somewhat rocky start, and an oddly abrupt ending. All of these problems can be overcome as the show beds in, but need resolving in order for ‘Snow White' to achieve its potential.
At its best, ‘Snow White' is a well-constructed story (even if the welcome addition of seven dwarfs provides the heroine with friendship but doesn't move the plot along at all) that is bright, cheery and feel-good. The colourful costumes, sets and performances give it plenty of visual appeal.
Panto at its very best is relentless fun for children and sidesplittingly hilarious for adults. Although ‘Snow White' isn't quite top tier, it has more than enough going for it to recommend as a family night out. The kids in the audience thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish, and that's the only criticism that really matters.
Cast: Dr Ranj, Gareth Gates, Simon Fielding, Britt Lenting, Laura Emmitt Writer: Alan McHugh Director: Andrew Ryan Running time: 130 mins Theatre: The Churchill, Bromley Dates: 7th December 2024 to 5th January 2025 Book ‘Snow White'
