The Snow Queen Melts Hearts at The Dukes
From the 21st November - 31st December, The Dukes ‘The Snow Queen,’ directed by Chris Lawson and written by Laura Lindow wishes their audiences a very Merry Christmas from the cosy, familial island of Stifle. But, when the sea air turns icy and children start going missing, Gerda Buckler (Amy Tara) is tasked with saving her best friend, Kai Tinkler (Harri Pitches), from the cold clutch of the Snow Queen (Tori Burgess). The show is split into two fifty-minute acts with a twenty-minute interval. As the audience joins young Gerda on her adventure, we meet a variety of quirky, charming characters of varieties I will not disclose – the festive show is packed full of surprises like presents under a Christmas tree! You just can’t predict what’s in store!
The modern take on Hans Christian Andersen’s fairytale retains warmth and a wholesome atmosphere like no other, meaning its inclusive for all the family. Its narration reflects the growing imagination of youngsters, while serving as a reminder of the importance of wonder for older audiences.
The colourful set of Stifle Island isn’t overwhelming but instead welcoming, as if you’ve been transported to a dollhouse drawn from imagination. The multilevel set’s interactivity is impressive from the start, from climbable trees and homes to twinkling stars and warm lights imitating that homely glow in the dark wintertime. It feels like stepping back into the storybooks a lot of adults will have put away on their shelves for years. The Snow Queen reinvigorates youthful imagination and excitement through the play’s immersive sound, tech and lights that add depth to the story. Meanwhile, the Scandinavian-inspired costumes are heartwarming!
The story is coated in a blanket of mystery with some darker undertones that engage audience emotion for the full duration. The script has something in it for all ages and is brought to life by the most animated, dedicated cast with an incredible level of attention to detail. From facial expressions, interaction with props and audience, to song (beware – they are so catchy you may find yourself summoning the Snow Queen to your own doorstep.) Amy Tara and Tori Burgess' impressive vocals transform the show, while William Travis as Mr Kelpine, Gareth Cassidy as Mr Buckler and Victoria Brazier as Elsie Orr make the island of Stifle feel like home. They apply visible passion to their characters and make them their own. This, combined with the fantastical story creates a beautiful winter tale about friendship, love, and some deep notions leaving the audience reflecting on how perhaps a sprinkle of wonder and fascination could change the way they see the world this winter.
The Dukes is a registered charity, so any support they can get counts towards their ability to produce wonderful works like The Snow Queen – currently they are collaborating with the BigGive Christmas Challenge, meaning any donation given is doubled! Especially as Lancaster University is sponsoring their talent, let’s come together for The Dukes and for our imaginations this Christmas.