Snow White

As I child I found Snow White the most terrifying of the fairy tales, with the Disney film the scariest in the Disney stable. This version from Stray Cats leans into the darkness of this classic story, in a stylish production aimed at an adult audience.

In a year with some fabulous papier-mâché trees, this production had an effective multi-level set designed by Bronwyn White and Karen Francis (although the levels were perhaps underused). A visually striking production, bold choices were made with lighting (lighting technician was Asha Perry), while costumes, designed by Karen Francis and Chelsea Hobson were era appropriate and lovely to look at.

A difficult script, in that it is very episodic, requiring multiple scene changes that disrupt the flow of the action, but the director and cast seem to have done their best to keep the action flowing.

Rhiannon Francis teamed playing the title and central role with being head choreographer and fight choreography (with Alex White) among other duties. She portrayed a strong and independent young woman, able to control her own destiny. She had a worthy rival in Meg Willis’ evil Queen. Beautiful of face but black of heart, Meg looked fabulous in a red wig (the wigs were great in this show) and quickly established herself as a force of power.

Hunter Perry managed to bring depth to the handsome Prince Florian, nicely accompanied by Braeden Geuer as his valet, Bastian. Andy Vernie was likeable and regal as King Ulrich. Aidan Thomas showed the conflicted heart of huntsman Klaus.

No dwarfs in this tale, but a troupe of rebels, led by Georgia Turner’s heroic Rhenagan. Great camaraderie and teamwork from Royce Newall, Amy Honor-Elliott, Monique Kinnest and Lachlan McNeil. Sheryl Gale played two roles, shining as a Troll.

The Mirror was played with authority by Teaghan Lowrie, strongly supported by the ensemble as Mirror Shards. An ensemble of six women and two men, were kept busy throughout playing multiple characters.

A tale that was both familiar and new, this dark fairy-tale, was a clear crowd-pleaser.

Kimberley Shaw