Jessica Harris is enchanted by Birmingham Rep’s seasonal classic.
This year’s production of The Snowman at the Birmingham Rep is a gem of a show. With its snowy scenes, its frosty lighting, and its parade of snow-women as well as snow-men, it’s a spellbinder for the young, and for the not-so-young as well. And, with the recent chilly snap, it couldn’t have come at a more fitting time for Birmingham audiences.
In contrast with the weather, the warmth of the production comes through in spades. The story, told through mime, movement and dance, is of a boy and a snowman. As the snowman comes to life on Christmas Eve, we see through his eyes how the world might look to a child just starting out on their own adventure of life.
From the alarm of encountering a scary cat, to the discovery of what a light switch does. From the fun of dancing with the animals of the forest, to the joy of riding in the sidecar of a motorbike. The world is full of exploration, excitement and fun.
But there is also the tussle between good and evil, and the importance of spotting the malice in characters like Jack Frost. And there is the love and the affection shared with people you trust, whether with parents, or with others around you. The show is highly relatable to young children. Its characters are appealing, its scenes a mix of the familiar and the fantastic, and its message reassuring. Stanley Williams as The Boy is perfect. His actions are animated and confident, his smile endearing, and he seems to totally relish being on stage.
Costuming is full of playfulness, from the outsized penguins and the delightful squirrels and reindeer, to the snow-people from many nations who come together to dance. Beneath these costumes, cast members are impressive in their use of physicality alone to articulate character and emotions. Even the singing of a Christmas carol, the only words used in the piece, is choreographed and is lovely to watch.
Scene changes, supported by highly effective lighting, are pure magic and other effects are equally compelling. A large illuminated clock becomes the focus of the set, counting down the hours until the boy can join the snowman on Christmas Day. Our first sight of Jack Frost, hair in spikes and icicles in place of fingers, is as a sharp silhouette against the backdrop.
The orchestra, led by musical director and pianist Gemma Hawkins, give a further sparkle to the show, with some of its members joining the cast on stage for the carol singing. Depending on which show you see, The Boy is played by Stanley Williams, Phoenix Beharry and
Teddy Holton-Frances. The Snowman is played by Andrew Ashton and Martin Fenton.
The production was directed by Bill Alexander and designed by Ruari Murchison. Lighting Design was by Tim Mitchell and choreography by Robert North. It was based on the book by Raymond Briggs and the film directed by Dianne Jackson.
The Snowman is at the Birmingham Rep until 12th January. For further information visit birmingham-rep.co.uk.
Pics – Tristram Kenton