With a story that takes inspiration from the classic fairy tale, Snow White (Katie Tonkinson) lives and works in the ice palace, ruled over by Spargo’s evil Queen Narcissus. With only palace jester Muddles (Louise Cielecki) to look out for her, life is set to become even harder when she turns eighteen and the Queen’s magic mirror (DeeArna McLean) reveals that Snow White is now ‘the fairest’ in the land.
Cue a visit from a prince (Tom Bales), a terrible mission for palace retainer Herman the Huntsman (Martin Johnston) and a visit to a cottage full of surprises in the woods.
Bringing together a new team led by director James Haddrell and musical director Steve Markwick, the show features design by Emily Bestow, choreography by Nancy Kettle, lighting design by Henry Slater and sound design by Liam McDermott. The production also marks the professional debut for ensemble performers Bekah Thompson-Phiri and Jessica Murphy. Snow White is the second pantomime by the venue’s long-time villain Anthony Spargo.
Anthony Spargo said: “At its heart, the story of Snow White is a classic tale of the triumph of good over evil and its themes of vanity, jealousy and the dangers of temptation are just as relevant today – so too is the resilience that Snow White shows in the face of tyranny. Having first performed in the Greenwich panto twelve years ago as villain, I am absolutely delighted to take on the role of writer once again this year. Our version of Snow White still contains many of the iconic moments and characters we know and love…but it wouldn’t be a Greenwich panto without a few surprises along the way!”
James Haddrell said: “The pantomime at Greenwich Theatre is an opportunity for us to bring together so many of the things that matter to us as a company – high quality theatre for children and families, a continuation of our return to in-house production, the creation of opportunities for emerging performers and theatre makers, and the further embedding of the company at the heart of the local community. With advance sales already breaking records I can’t wait to share this ambitious new show with our audiences.”
Greenwich Theatre, Crooms Hill, SE10 from 24 Nov 23-8 Jan 24. Times: Varied – See website for details. Admission: £16.50 – £33.
Box office: 020 8858 7755 – www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk
