Local students and theater enthusiasts are set to deliver enchanting experiences as they bring the classic fairy tale of Snow White to life through two engaging productions. This festive season sees the Tyne Theatre & Opera House presenting the traditional pantomime Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, alongside the whimsical student-run adaptation titled The Tale of Snow White at the Columbian Theatre.
The Tyne Theatre & Opera House kicked off its performance run on Boxing Day, showcasing the magic of this festive pantomime. Staged by Enchanted Entertainment and directed by Glen Murphy, the production merges classic fairy-tale charm with contemporary humor, ensuring its appeal to audiences of all ages. According to Stacy from Theatre and Tonic, the elaborate sets, including the enchanted forest and the dwarfs’ cozy cottage, drew audible appreciation from young audience members. The visual spectacle set the stage for what would be a delightful show.
Performances were highlighted by the powerful presence of actors such as Grace Anne Davison, who took on the role of Snow White, embodying her innocence and resilience. Davison's chemistry with the Seven Dwarfs, especially standout Sandra Maria Germann as Shearer, shone brightly, reflecting the camaraderie and warmth of their characters. The wicked queen, portrayed by Penelope McDonald, provided comedic relief with her melodramatic villainy, drawing boos and laughter throughout the show.
The comedic duo of Charlie Richmond as Muddles and Lewis Denny as Dame Dotty delivered classic slapstick humor, keeping audiences engaged with groan-worthy jokes and lively energy. The Seven Dwarfs, particularly their march through the audience singing “High Ho,” garnered rapturous applause. The production also incorporated popular contemporary songs to cater to diverse age groups, blending nostalgia with modern hits to create toe-tapping musical numbers.
Meanwhile, over at the Columbian Theatre, anticipation builds for its student-led rendition, The Tale of Snow White, which opens early next year. Set for performances beginning January 31, this adaptation promises to give the classic tale a humorous twist with new characters such as quirky forest animals, Dwarf Villagers, and even a comical governmental representative from the Department of Natural Resources.
The Columbian Theatre’s production is part of the Winter Theatre Academy, which has seen significant growth, increasing from just 25 to 36 participants since its inception. This expansion not only fosters creativity but also cultivates confidence and community among the young artists involved. Their theater program aims to create spaces where children can thrive and express themselves through the performing arts.
The showtimes are scheduled for 7 p.m. on Friday, January 31, and Saturday, February 1, with a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday, February 2. The theatre encourages community members to support these budding thespians and enjoy the fresh, local take on Snow White.
Both productions serve as testaments to the local arts scene, emphasizing the charm of community theater and the joy of live performances. The Tyne Theatre’s festive pantomime embraces tradition, laughter, and theatrical vision, delivering joy to their audience. On the flip side, the Columbian Theatre is carving out its niche by engaging local students, showcasing their talents through innovation and humor.
While one production offers classic storytelling wrapped in tradition, the other breathes new life and modernity to the familiar narrative—both demonstrating the enduring appeal of Snow White. Audiences young and old are encouraged to revel in these local presentations as they celebrate not just the fairy tale, but also the dedication of the artists bringing these timeless stories to the stage.
The Tyne Theatre & Opera House's production runs until January 5, 2025, giving plenty of opportunities to catch the show. Meanwhile, tickets for the student performance are now available, inviting all who are interested to witness the burst of youthful creativity at the Columbian Theatre. Each show promises to be memorable, catering to families and theater-goers alike during this festive season.
