REVIEW: Llandudno panto is Strictly stunning

Published date: 16 December 2009 | Published by: David Waddington


 

POISONED apples, seven men of small stature and a handsome prince; the tale of Snow White is familiar with fairy tale fans across the globe.

But few versions also boast a towering cross-dresser in skimpy knickers singing an homage to Bananarama.

That's what audiences can expect in Llandudno over Christmas with Venue Cymru presenting Strictly Come Dancing's Craig Revel Horwood in his first foray into pantomime.

Spectacle

Brought to the stage by QDos Entertainment - who have boasted box office busting shows at the venue over the last few years - director Tudor Davies clearly has one goal in the brand new show Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs: spectacle.

Dazzling dance routines, startling special effects, celebrity cameos and sensational songs combine in this no-holds-barred extravaganza.

Adopting the usual panto narrative, the story follows the beautiful Princess Snow White ahead of her 21st birthday.

With her parents dead, the kingdom is ruled by her wicked auntie Queen Lucrietia who plots to murder her niece and marry the dashing Prince Harry of Holyhead.

But thanks to some help by Snow White's best friend Muddles and a gang of seven, vertically challenged royal courtiers, there might just be a 'happily ever after' after all.

Stunning singing

From the outset, the lavish set pieces set the magical tone as Gemma James, like all good princesses, brings Snow White to life with her stunning singing.

From heartfelt ballads to upbeat pop numbers, the experienced actress hooks you in while duets with Mark Evans - whose princely performance is a pleasure to watch - are the musical highlights of the show.

Providing plenty of laughs is returning comedian John Evans as put-upon Muddles who revels in his audience interaction, while Ian Dring's courtly Chambers brings quality and class.

But the show really belongs to Craig Revel Horwood.

Boos & hisses

Slipping into the stockings of the wicked Queen Lucrietia, the acid-tongued judge incurred a hefty bout of boos and hisses on opening night as he dived head first into his hilariously flamboyant performance.

Glammed up in bouffant hair, ruby lips and a host of dazzling costumes - some of which don't stay on for long - his devilishly fabulous turn had audiences rolling in the aisles, while the obligatory Strictly references came thick and fast.

Viewers of the BBC show who may question Craig's qualification to harshly judge the contestants are sure to be put in their place after witnessing the series of challenging dance routines - all in high-heeled shoes!

A toe-tapping tango with the prince induced a rapturous applause from the transfixed crowd, while a particularly raunchy number with Chambers added a dash of taboo to the proceedings.

Mixed in with his bellowing singing voice, it begs the question: why hasn't Craig taken up panto before?

Backing up the accomplished cast are the children of Pearl Shaw Dance School, one of the finest ensembles seen in North Wales, and the QDos musicians, who ensure Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs ticks all the boxes for an evening of festive fun.

So put down the remote and take a break from the TV to enjoy a night of live music, top comedy and astonishing dancing to really get yourself in the seasonal spirit this Christmas.

  • Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs will be showing at Venue Cymru until January 3. For more information or to book tickets contact the Box Office on 01492 872000 or visit the website at www.venuecymru.co.uk 

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