We’re delighted to share with you our NODA report for Snow White 2018.
There was certainly a buzz of eager anticipation around the auditorium on opening night with an improvised “safety curtain” of traffic cones across the stage, and smoke puffing out from the chimney on the D
warfs’ Cottage, auguring well for an evening of traditional pantomime fun.
A strong cast of seasoned principals led an enthusiastic chorus of all age groups, and a great team of youngsters playing the Seven Dwarfs, each with their own individual style.
While the opening felt slightly hesitant, bearing in mind this was the first night, as the performance moved on there were plenty of modern up-beat musical numbers and some well – crafted choreography to up the pace.
Dame Dolly pitched the character just right – as a “chap in a dress” and was well supported by Danny in typical “Silly Billy” mode.
The principal boy and girl were played with confidence and in traditional style, and the “two twits” Bogwart and Stinkwort brought energy and enthusiasm to their roles.
The part of the Mirror can be a difficult one to crack, and is often dictated by the confines of the stage area available. Although for the most part effective and with good reactions from the character, it seemed there were times with no obvious reason for it to be on, and also perhaps needed to be a touch more mysterious.
Queen Caligula commanded the stage and made a strong and effective character, with a fantastic and decidedly different costume, but the sharp hairstyle sadly missing the purple colour as depicted in the very professional programme. Black Wing made a suitable and believable “oily henchman”, and the two young palace guards were delightful!
Much thought and hard work had gone into costumes with some special touches, scene changes were smoothly handled, lighting effective and musical numbers well chosen.
The forest scene was well received and great fun, with the appearance of “Paddington Bear” adding to the moment! HCTC is obviously a very thriving, family orientated and well supported society, with members happy to work either “on-stage” or “behind the scenes” for the benefit of the show, which very much came across in this production.
‘Tricia Barclay
NODA Representative District 6