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Stirling’s Macrobert Arts Centre hosts a fun panto adventure that flips the fairytale we all know on its head in typical Johnny McKnight style.
In true Macrobert style, McKnight pens a panto that bucks traditional trends in favour of forging its own path. This panto is bright, bold and brash, bursting from Karen Tennent’s sensational set.
While McKnight can get away with few scenes and much improv when he’s in the driving seat as Dame, this year’s panto never really lifts off the ground on pace.
A sluggish first act clashes against a reserved press night audience, and even despite the Macrobert troupe doing their best to coax their audience into a more vocal reaction, there’s not much adventure to react to.
Every fairytale needs a princess and as the titular Snow White, Tinashe Warikandwa exudes a cool energy – party due to Jennie Lööf’s trendy threads – seldom seen in panto.
This self-assured principal doesn’t need a thigh-slapping Prince (Tiger Mitchell) to save her – even if this Prince has a bit more depth than those in the big-budget shows.
Chris Forbes’ dame Nanny Maria Shut-Yon-Trapp brings the laughs, a scatty delight who anchors the whole show, bringing a constant stream of chaos in her wake.
Kara Swinney’s vocals take the show to delightful heady heights as she tries to win the affection of wee Swanky (Helen McAlpine).
The balance of light and shade is sadly off, with baddie Baroness De’Wharff (Giga Gray) failing to whip her audience into a Boo’s induced frenzy.
Stephanie Fulton and Deone Gillespie ensure both adult and junior ensembles dazzle in a show that passes the mic – literally – to the wee ones. It’s always a real joy to see the confidence and talent of the next generation – and a rarity these days.
As ever, when Mariah’s opening bars ring out and the curtain falls, Christmas is really here – and you’re sure to leave in a festive spirit.
Snow White at Macrobert Arts Centre, Stirling until Tuesday 31st December 2024
Photo Credit: Tommy GKW
