The relaxed performance pantomime at Loughborough Town Hall is always a highlight for us as it gives Poppy, who is autistic and has a learning disability, alongside a visual impairment, something to look forward to in the New Year when the festive season is wrapping up.
This season, the production by Little Wolf entertainment was Snow White. A copy of the relaxed performance guide had been emailed over to us a couple of weeks earlier, so Poppy was able to familiarise herself with the venue, and this year’s cast, prior to attending.
The guide also suggested audience reactions to the show. This was invaluable to Poppy, as it prepared her beforehand, forewarning when it may get quite noisy, and giving her plenty of processing time before the show. The guide also gave directions to a chill out room, if required, during the performance.
We arrived at the venue and quickly picked up our tickets. Poppy was keen to get some stickers, which she had remembered picking up last year, but unfortunately we were informed that they had all gone. Not to worry though, as she was soon cheered up by a member of staff offering her a bookmark depicting the show’s characters.
Nothing was too much trouble for the staff behind the bar who quickly sorted our drinks. The helpful front of house staff also directed us to where we could get a programme before we made our way to our seats.
In the show, the Evil Queen Nocturna is played by Cara Dudgeon, who is the perfect villain. Her costume gives more than a nod to the original Queen Grimhilde, with an up-to-date twist. Her transformation from the old lady back to herself is impressive. Poppy was enjoying boo-ing every time she was on stage.
Nocturna wants to be the ‘fairest in the land’, but she has a rival in her step-daughter Snow White, played by Emma Robertson. Robertson is sweetness itself, and looks like she is having a ball throughout the whole production. Poppy instantly warmed to her.
Dame Cilla Bang, played by Matthew Siveter, steals the show, with the most incredible costumes, the most amazing voice, and brilliant banter. His sidekick, Keanu Leaves, played by Elliot Coombe, keeps up with the pace, too. The scene with the greenhouse and the veg sketch are both absolute genius, delivered to perfection, Poppy could not stop giggling.
Hamish the Huntsman, played by Stuart Turner, who was also puppeteer for one of the lead dwarfs also had brilliant timing , as did Jack Eccles, who played both the Magic Mirror and the other lead dwarf and Ben Williamson-Jones, who played the charming Prince Rupert.
Special mention has to go to the 11-strong junior ensemble – I believe we watched Team Bramley on Friday – who were excellent puppeteers for five of the dwarfs, and six excellent dancers, definitely ‘triple threat’ material.
Poppy said her favourite scenes were “all the ones with the music and dancing”, and she particularly liked the Queen medley. The icing on the cake was the disco-tastic ending. What a show, it kept Poppy’s attention from start to finish, which is no mean feat.
★★★★★
Snow White is at Loughborough Town Hall until Sunday January 5. Limited tickets available for both performances. Running time approx 2hrs 15.
Tickets £25.50-£27. Concessions available
Loughborough Town Hall is taking bookings for next year’s pantomime – Cinderella
The relaxed performance will take place on Friday, January 2. Contact the Box Office on 01509 231914
