Snow White (The Off-White Version)

Perth is in peak Panto season, and the latest offering is the very modern pantomime, the Irish Theatre Players’ Snow White (The Off-White Version). Written by local writer Yvette Wall, this show sticks to pantomime traditions with its style, but has some distinct modern twists.

The show begins with a tutorial from Shivas Lindsay’s loveable bearded Dame, Nanny Nice, on how to cheer and boo at a pantomime, because "half of you are Australian” and need the lesson. Whether it was Nanny’s teaching, or that Perth is now experienced with Panto - it was clear that this Opening Night audience knew exactly what to do and that all ages were clearly having a good time.

The theatre is beautifully decorated for this show, and the always welcoming foyer offers lovely treats on sale - both of which add to the atmosphere. Possibly the prettiest set we have seen at this venue, Virginia Moore-Price’s design, constructed by Tallan Chappell, is gorgeous - especially the lovely oversized flowers - made by Kresna. Merri Ford’s costuming is lovely to look at - with the animal characters very cute, while Queen Grizelda’s striking outfit looks as if it may have been stolen from the musical Six, currently playing just across the river.

Rebecca Harris makes a solid community theatre debut in the title role, a princess with presence and independence. Her parents (taken too soon) are played with strength by Peter Giles and Taneal Thompson (a lovely singing voice). Ryan Emery brings some comic strength to the Magic Mirror, with Conor Rice giving flair to French Chef Pierre.

Jennifer McGrath is an audience favourite as evil Queen Grizelda, a worthy villain who revels in the character and works the audience beautifully.

This show has dispensed with the seven dwarfs, and instead we get some surprise characters. Lorraine Garvie and Susan Keating show great teamwork as talking trees, caught up with Snow White in an episode of “I’m a Fairy Tale Character Get Me Out of Here”. We meet Keelan Thompson’s Prince Charming, who is not what we expect, and Tiara Volk’s outstanding and independent Red Riding Hood (a standout performance). Claire Kelly is efficient as a TV Tech and writer/stage manager Yvette Wall makes a clever cameo.

Children in pantomime are often a great inclusion, and this group, playing palace pets and woodland creatures are especially cute and lovely to watch. Led by Mathilda Theodorsen’s intelligent Rabbit, and Jasmine Wall-Storer's Cat, this ensemble including Tom Baker, Alexa Kelly, Sienna Murphy, Penny Giles, Sophia Lindsay, Evelyn Ellis and Nikita Kelly, several of whom are making stage debuts, do a great job.

Clearly embraced by the audience on Opening Night, Snow White (The Off-White Version), is a great choice for those who like their pantomime modern and woke. A fun performance.

Kimberley Shaw