Laughs, local talent and a dash of magic combine in a pantomime that delights all ages
IF THE TRUE test of a good pantomime is its ability to keep two sixty-somethings and a four-year-old grandchild happily entertained, then Snow White at Carmarthen’s Lyric Theatre passes with flying colours.
Theatrau Sir Gâr’s latest festive offering delivers exactly what a Christmas panto should: high-energy fun, knowing humour, and plenty of moments that have the audience shouting back at the stage with gusto. From the moment the curtain went up, it was clear this production had all the right ingredients.
There was generous audience participation, well-judged slapstick, jokes that ranged from gloriously corny to smartly contemporary, and just enough cheeky innuendo to keep the adults smiling while the children remained blissfully unaware. Add in a string of catchy musical numbers, a gloriously wicked villain, and a larger-than-life dame, and you have a show that leaves you heading home with a warm festive glow.
The laughs came thick and fast for the older members of the audience, while our four-year-old companion was utterly engrossed from start to finish – particularly delighted to be singing along to Golden from K-Pop Demon Hunters as the show drew to a close.
This marks the third consecutive year that Theatrau Sir Gâr has produced its own pantomime, working once again in partnership with leading UK producer Imagine Theatre. It is clearly a winning formula, and judging by the reaction in the auditorium, many audience members will already be pencilling Dick Whittington into their diaries for next Christmas.
Carmarthen’s own Steve Elias was on riotous form as Dame Dolly Mixture, packing his performance with ad-libs that kept fellow cast members – and the excellent sign language interpreter – on their toes. Another local favourite, comedian and podcaster Elis James, made a welcome virtual appearance as the Spirit of the Mirror, drawing appreciative laughs.
In the title role, Bridgend actress Ceri-Anne Thomas was a charming and confident Snow White, following on from her success as Belle at the Lyric last year. Carmarthen-born Alexandra George relished every moment as the deliciously evil Queen Evilyn, while Nathan Guy brought plenty of comic flair to the role of Jingles the court jester. Abe Armitage, a recent graduate of the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, completed the principal cast as a suitably dashing Prince.
Special praise must also go to the local young performers who joined the junior ensemble, adding boundless energy and polish to what was already a highly professional production.
Snow White runs until December 29, with Relaxed Performances scheduled for December 17 at 6pm and December 19 at 10am.
Tickets can be booked via www.theatrausirgar.co.uk, by calling the Box Office on 0345 226 3510.
A festive treat for all ages – and further proof that Carmarthen’s panto tradition is alive, well, and thriving.
