First reviews praise bold retelling of Snow White at Chelmsford Theatre
Chelmsford Theatre’s 2024 panto, Snow White, opened its doors to audiences over the weekend, with initial reviews praising its “well-choreographed musical numbers” and “strong cast”.
This year’s production is a charming re-telling of the traditional German fairy tale with a modern update. Audiences will love following the bold and chirpy princess, Snow White, as she flees the Wicked Queen and makes a whole new forest of friends in this fresh interpretation of the original story.
Local critics praise comical routines and talented cast
Chelmsford Theatre has pulled off another outstanding panto this year, with the first reviews from critics praising its refreshed plot, roof-raising songs and slapstick comedy. Southend Theatre Scene gave this year’s performance a five-star rating, calling it “all round fun for everyone” and BBC Essex’s Sonia Watson said it “absolutely brilliant”. Ovation Radio dubbed it a “modern retelling oozing with everything you could ever need from a pantomime”. Youth theatre club Mix Up Theatre gave the performance 4.5 stars, describing it as it “the perfect mix of comedy and action”.
Critics also commended the previously announced cast, who “gave it their all” and created “pure enjoyment for audiences of all ages”. Southend Theatre Scene singled out Lori Haley Fox’s Wicked Queen as “magnificent as she dominates the stage” and praised Snow White actress Sadie Levett’s “strong singing voice”.
Strong cast performances were praised by critics.
The first audiences of 2024 have been equally thrilled with this year’s production, with plenty of laughing, singing, and booing throughout the first performances.
““It was the best pantomime I’ve seen, will definitely come back!”
““I loved all the singing and dancing, it was fun”
““We went this year, we went last year, and we are going again NEXT year!”
Traditional panto a vital part of Chelmsford Theatre’s annual cycle
With 61 performances taking place across five weeks, the annual pantomime is the biggest event in Chelmsford Theatre’s calendar. The theatre produces its panto in house each year, with the team managing sound design, stage production, marketing and general management. Partners One From The Heart work alongside the theatre on the script, music, choreography and casting.
Theatre Director, Rhys Thomas, says this beloved British tradition is integral to the theatre’s annual cycle:
““After hundreds of years of history, the traditional British pantomime is still today considered a critical part of the life cycle of local theatre (oh, yes it is!), and this is absolutely true for Chelmsford Theatre in 2024. We really rely on the income from our winter panto, which allows us to embark on other exciting projects throughout the year.
Rhys Thomas, Chelmsford Theatre Director
“This year, our panto has done remarkably well already – and we’ve only just opened! We’re grateful for every one of you coming through our doors this Christmas to celebrate this cherished festive tradition with us. This year’s show is filled to the brim with glitz and humour, and we can’t wait to hear you all shouting “he’s behind you!” as loud as you can in the coming weeks!”
Limited seats remaining
Seats are now limited for Snow White, with almost 90% of tickets sold, so audiences are encouraged to book their annual panto trip if they haven’t already.
Book your tickets for Snow White via Chelmsford Theatre’s website. Keep up to date with other shows coming to Chelmsford soon by following the theatre on Facebook and Instagram.
Cherelle writes about Chelmsford Theatre, Hylands Estate, Chelmsford Museum, the Mayor of Chelmsford and culture and events in the city.