West End Show review: The Snowman at Peacock Theatre

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Published on Saturday, 19 November 2022 20:46

Last Updated on 21 November 2022

alecmackeson

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The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre was beyond my expectations. I walked into the theatre unsure on what to expect, and before I knew it, I was introduced to a colourful winter scenery and extravagant costumes. The show really surprised me with the way the actors and dancers traversed around the stage to bring the wholesome story of the magical film and picture book to life for its 25th year on stage. I loved every single bit of the performance and even got to meet The Snowman in person at the interval!

The play consisted of amazing choreography accompanied by a live orchestra. The classic Christmas show transported me to the wintery wonderland of a boy and a snowman that comes to life.

The show included nostalgic music such as ‘Walking in the Air’, and uses the dancers skills as a form of storytelling to show the audience on what is happening, not tell. The cleverly crafted sets and set changes flowed with the story really well. The talented actors and dancers were able to portray an entire story with no words. I left the theatre with a sense of wonder, joy and full of Christmas spirit.

The performance is enjoyable for all ages and perfect for kids and their families.

The book

When author and illustrator Raymond Briggs created his famous children’s book, The Snowman, he probably had no idea it would become a family Christmas favourite, animated for the screen then brought to the stage every year since 1986, transformed into a theatrical treat loved by millions. That’s exactly what happened.

He’s a lovely man and no doubt he’s chuffed to bits to be the creator of such a lot of pleasure and magic. The stage show is on, as usual, at the Peacock theatre in the West End, and this year’s is set to be the best production yet.

The story

The story follows young James and his magical friend the Snowman, who comes alive at night and takes the boy on a magical journey through the starry sky to the North Pole. They hook up with Father Christmas, a load more Snowmen, reindeer, penguins and, of course, the wicked Jack Frost. You’ll find yourself walking on the air along with James and his snowy friend as they soar high above you in the theatre – how do they do that! The story has captivated generations and remains, twenty years down the line, a top class festive theatrical treat.

The music and lyrics are by Howard Blake, including Walking in the Air, made famous by Aled Jones’ haunting voice.