St Helen’s Theatre Royal – until 15 January 2025
Reviewed by Carla Whittaker
5*****
Regal Entertainment’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is a glittering jewel in the crown of pantomime tradition, proving once again that St Helen’s Theatre Royal knows how to deliver a festive feast for the senses. Brimming with wit, wonder, and a hearty dose of cheeky humour, this production is the epitome of feel-good entertainment, leaving audiences young and old beaming from ear to ear.
The theatre was buzzing with anticipation as families and excitable children filled the seats, eagerly waiting for the curtain to rise. From the moment the first note played, the atmosphere was alive with festive energy. True to panto form, this rendition of the classic tale delivers a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Snow White’s familiar story is retold with flair, packing every scene with laughter, music, and festive cheer. The narrative whisks the audience on a whirlwind adventure, complete with dazzling twists and audience-pleasing surprises that keep everyone on their toes.
The cast is a powerhouse of talent, each member adding their unique sparkle to the show. Chantelle Morgan shines as Snow White, bringing grace and charm to the role. She embodies the character’s pure-hearted nature with effortless warmth and a voice that melts hearts. Maureen Nolan, of the world-famous Nolan Sisters, is a commanding presence as the Wicked Queen. Her delightfully sinister portrayal is captivating and brings just the right amount of theatrical panache to her villainous antics. Opposite her, Emrhys Cooper’s Prince Frederick exudes charisma and charm, delivering his role with a twinkle in his eye and a sense of genuine affection for his princess.
However, it’s Lewis Devine as Muddles who steals the show. His side-splitting humour and comic timing are a triumph, leaving the audience in fits of laughter. From his hilarious “12 Days of Christmas” skit to his water-pistol escapades, Devine bridges the gap between cheeky adult humour and child-friendly comedy with remarkable ease. The audience, particularly the children, adored him, laughing uproariously at his mishaps and cheeky innuendos. My son, like many others, was in hysterics, shouting along and thoroughly enjoying every silly moment. Richard Aucott’s Nurse Nelly is another standout, clad in increasingly outrageous costumes (designed by himself) and delivering larger-than-life humour that had everyone roaring with laughter. Special mention must also go to Leanne Campbell as the Magic Mirror, whose pre-recorded segments were seamlessly integrated, her witty Scouse humour adding a modern twist to the classic role.
One unique and delightful feature of this production was the celebrity dwarf voiceovers, with a lineup including Johnny Vegas, Pete Price, Joel Ross, Louis Emerick, Craig Phillips, the Queen of Scotty Road, and John May. Their humorous contributions added a star-studded touch to the show, bringing smiles to every corner of the theatre. What’s more, it was heartwarming to learn that most of the celebrities donated their fees to local Merseyside charities, spreading festive goodwill beyond the stage.
Adding even more magic to the evening, Jema Leopold and her impeccably trained Doggy Delights performed a series of fabulous tricks that had the audience “awwwing” in unison. The dogs were an absolute delight, showcasing not only their talents but also the creativity of a production that continually found ways to surprise and charm.
Musical numbers are always a panto highlight, and this production does not disappoint. The songs range from timeless classics to modern pop hits, each performed with infectious energy. The choreography was vibrant and polished, with every number adding excitement and momentum to the show. The ensemble deserves applause for their high-energy routines and the perfect synchronization that brought each scene to life.
Visually, the production is a treat for the eyes. The sets transported the audience from the regal palace to the enchanted forest, dripping with glitter and festive sparkle. Nurse Nelly’s costumes deserve a special mention; each was a work of art, more outrageous and colourful than the last. The attention to detail in the visual design created a magical, immersive world that captivated the audience.
Audience participation is, of course, at the heart of any pantomime, and this production excelled in involving the crowd. Children shrieked with delight as they booed the Wicked Queen at every opportunity. Even the parents couldn’t resist joining in, creating a lively, communal atmosphere that’s uniquely panto.
In every way, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is a triumph. Regal Entertainments has once again demonstrated its mastery of the pantomime art form, blending comedy, music, and festive spirit into a production that’s impossible not to love. Under the expert guidance of Jane Joseph and Chantelle Nolan, this show sparkles with joy and professionalism, ensuring a magical experience for all.
St Helen’s Theatre Royal is a cozy, family-friendly venue with helpful staff and easy parking, making it the perfect place to start your Christmas celebrations. Whether you’re a panto veteran or a first-timer, this production is an enchanting experience not to be missed.
Verdict: A five-star festive extravaganza that will leave you laughing, clapping, and brimming with Christmas cheer. Book your tickets before the curtain falls on 15 January 2025—you won’t regret it!