Review: Let it Snow

By Amirah Valu

Based on the fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen, the Snow Queen is adapted by Charles Way, and is directed by Natasha Metherall.

Set in a far away folk village The Snow Queen tells the story of Kai and Gerda, best friends who get separated by the Snow Queen. Kai is seduced by The Snow Queen’s magical charm and is promised that going with her will be a fun adventure.

It is up to the heroine of the play Gerda to go on a journey through spring, summer and autumn to bring him home safely.

The show’s great strength is that both adults and children can enjoy it as it adds a new touch to the fairy tale genre. It is comedic at times, has funny one-liners and a range of relatable characters.

Some of the plot in the production is, at times, not consistent and with so many different characters being introduced it can get confusing to try and understand each new character.

That said the superb acting from the cast makes up for it.

The Snow Queen played by Sugar Rush and Fresh Meat actress Sara Stewart plays the perfect villain, adding the occasional cackle and wearing an outfit of which any Disney villan would be envious.

The stunning set design created by Su Blackwell uses paper designs, which are influenced by fairytales and storytelling.

Every scene in the play has a creative element to it and great attention to detail.

For example, in the scene where Gerda has to face the robbers to make her journey to the Northern lights, the stage transforms into a forest with faint lighting and artificial fire to help the story come to life.

Overall the play does have some elements of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. It is fun, light-hearted and will fill you with Christmas warmth.  

The Snow Queen is playing at The Rose Theatre on Kingston from now until January 8.

 Tickets cost between £8-£26. Students get £3 off with a valid  student ID card.