Snow White – Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield

Writer and Director: Paul Hendy

A warm welcome is always received here at the Lyceum and it’s so good to be back reviewing their latest pantomime Snow White. The pre show warm-up, the infamous ‘Audience Cam’ returns, pastiching those cheesy American sporting events and it’s a real tonic to lift those Christmas spirits. It’s extra touches like this that make their pantos so endearing. The Christmas bangers are here too and we are immediately warmed up by the band and crew in a festive sing-a-long. They really sell it to us and get us in the mood for what promises to be a scintillating smile-fest with audiences young and old grinning from ear to ear. What else would you expect from James Harrison (Musical Director) ‘the most enthusiastic man in show business’?

The smiles don’t end there though with this unmissable extravaganza expertly blending tradition, innovation, and sheer theatrical magic. Starring a stellar cast including Damian Williams, Quang Luong (Gladiator’s own ‘Viper’), Marc Pickering, and Coronation Street’s Catherine Tyldesley, this production delivers a hearty dose of laughter, awe and family-friendly charm that makes it a standout in this year’s pantomime calendar.

At the helm is Damian Williams, a Sheffield panto legend who once again proves why he’s so beloved in the city. His larger-than-life portrayal of Nurse Nellie steals every scene with a razor-sharp wit and a natural ability to engage an audience, ensuring we are all constantly involved. Whether delivering perfectly-timed quips or engaging in the traditional pantomime mayhem, Williams’ performance is nothing short of brilliant.

Catherine Tyldesley as the Evil Queen is delightfully wicked, embracing her role with grandeur and gusto. Her powerful presence is matched by her impressive vocal performances, delivering villainy with a glamorous twist. Opposite her, Aoife Kenny as Snow White brings warmth and grace to the titular role, with a fresh take on the classic princess archetype. Her performance is filled with charm and earnestness, a joy to behold. Matthew Croke is a powerhouse as Prince Charming with strong vocals to boot.

Marc Pickering is a standout in this production. His impeccable comic timing and affable charisma keep the energy high, and his interactions with Williams are a masterclass in pantomime double-acts. Together, they spark spontaneous laughter and tear down the fourth wall effortlessly. Look out for the outstanding Elton John MegaMix in Act 2. There’s even a couple of cheeky cameos by chat show legend, Alan Carr in the guise of magic mirror – joyous.

The production’s visual design is a spectacle in itself. The sets are lavish, transporting audiences in to a magical fairytale land with opulent backdrops including a 3D pop-up book cottage which, given the confined depth in stage space was particularly impressive. The use of Mark Dymock’s vibrant lighting design really brings this show alive and everything just seems to fit seamlessly.

The costumes are equally dazzling, offering a mix of the traditional and modern, with particular kudos to the design of Williams’ Nurse Nellie outfits.

Musically, the show is a triumph. The live band sound better than ever as they breathe life into every number, and the cleverly chosen songs, often reimagined with humorous lyrics, keep the momentum flowing.

Writer and Director Paul Hendy deserves significant praise for bringing it all together. The script is pitch-perfect, balancing laugh-out-loud moments with heartfelt scenes that remind us of the story’s enduring themes of kindness and courage.

Overall, Snow Whiteis everything you could want from a traditional family pantomime and more: enchanting, hilarious, and packed with unforgettable performances. Whether you’re a panto regular or a first-timer, this production guarantees a magical night out for the whole family. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the festive season, leaving you with a smile on your face and warmth in your heart. Don’t miss this little-big festive offering from the team at Sheffield Theatres. Is this Snow White the best pantomime in the land? Possibly. Is Damian Williams the country’s greatest Dame? Oh, yes he is!

Runs until 5th January 2025