Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all? Well, Dame Williams, of course!
Back at the Lyceum for his 17th year, legend Damian Williams was a hoot as always, as was the entire show with a stellar cast rounding up the year wonderfully by integrating 2024 highlights, trends and memes. I did not think I’d hear the words ‘rizz’ or ‘sigma’ at the Lyceum but there’s a first time for everything.
People tend to see pantomimes as being aimed towards children or children being the primary demographic but that really isn’t the case. The adults at the show were probably having the most fun, and not a single eye was dry from tears of laughter - children, adults, and everyone in between alike.
We really were gifted with a star cast this year, with not only Williams, but features from Alan Carr, the likes of Game of Thrones’ Dean Whatton, Gladiators’ Quang Luong, Corrie’s Catherine Tyldesley, West End’s Matthew Croke, and more! Together with their acting, singing and dancing, they all did a wonderful job of telling the story of Snow White with the classic comical twists.
Right from the beginning, the atmosphere was electric and exciting, particularly thanks to Musical Director, James Harrison, energising the crowd with pure enjoyment. He and the band did a brilliant job on the music, sound effects and impeccable timing. Without their work, the scenes just wouldn’t have the same dramatic and comical impact. It was brilliant to see James again at the end showing off his musical talent on the piano - beginning and ending the show with immense positive energy spectacularly rounded it off.
That energy was well complemented by the bright costumes, from the classic Snow White and Evil Queen garbs, to Nurse Nellie’s extravagant changes in each scene. Switching from periodic in one scene, to a Gladiator, Aldi ad, or a bottle of Henderson’s in the next, I was constantly excited to see what Williams would next come on stage in. As a classic Evolution Productions pantomime, it contained over-the-top costumes, ironic and trendy jokes, the famous ghost gag bench (!), and of course, the many nods (or kicks) to Yorkshire and its people.
What makes these pantomimes that bit extra special and enchanting are the plentiful moments of audience participation and relatability. From finding Nurse Nellie’s next beau in the audience to booing Sheffield Wednesday and singing songs about Yorkshire breakfasts, it feels like friendly competition and solidarity as an audience in Yorkshire all at once (especially being a Yorkshire-woman myself).
Of course, you can’t have a pantomime without the incredible singing and dancing that makes it a Christmas pantomime. I thoroughly enjoyed all the musical numbers, using songs, new and old, and transforming them to fit the story of Snow White. Each member of the crew had captivating vocals, amplified by the choreography of the ensemble. I particularly enjoyed Catherine Tyldesley’s numbers as the Evil Queen - her serious scenes were a balanced contrast to the overarching comedy, not to mention impressive maneuvering and flying during ‘I Will Survive.’
Each of these scenes, dark and light, were beautifully enhanced by the detailed set and lighting. With different scenes for each location, and lighting indicating the mood and tones, the ambience for each scene was well set. At times subtle, and other times popping and sparkling, the lights could’ve been a character in themselves.
Overall, the Sheffield Christmas panto was a delight as always. It’s a highlight of every year during the festive season and always a bundle of laughs. The show kept me immersed, entertained, and excited, with a smile on my face or laugh from my mouth throughout the whole two and a half hours. It never disappoints!
Snow White is on at the Lyceum until Sunday 5 January 2025. Tickets are limited - book now.
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