It is a classic fairytale told many times over in often different ways, but the production of Snow White being put on by The Centre Stage Company includes many ‘firsts’ for the dramatic group.
The latest pantomime to be staged by the Haverhill-based group will begin its run at the town’s arts centre on January 18 and rehearsals have been taking place since October.
James Player has returned to direct, 12-months after he made his debut in the role for the company with its 2024 panto, Robin Hood, which he also wrote.
The Centre Stage Company has been rehearsing for months for its new panto, Snow White, which opens on January 18.Here, Sam Barker (Widow Bunny, left) is pictured with Tilly Harriss (Snow White). Picture: Contributed
Aged 21 at that time, James became the youngest director in the history of Centre Stage.
The core storyline for this year’s panto doesn’t differ from the one that people will be familiar with, explained James.
“It’s the normal Snow White story, just pantofied. It’s the seven dwarves, who will still have their moments.
With Ollie Reid (Mirror Mirror) in rehearsal for Snow White are Jacqui Player and the Minikins.Picture: Contributed
“There are moments that people will look forward to in the story, like Snow White running away and the ‘mirror mirror on the wall’ moments and the red apple.
“It’s the original story just with a dame added into it and the fairy and a comedy character. They’ve all been added in to make it a panto.
“It’s even got a launderette in it, which is different.”
There are numerous first time experiences among the Snow White cast and crew, starting with the fact James has never previously directed a show that he didn’t write.
Tilly Harriss (Snow White) and Katie Player, left, who plays Aggy in rehearsal.Picture: Contributed
Even though he has had new challenges to overcome when compared to last year’s panto, James says he has still ‘loved’ getting the show ready for opening night.
It is also the first panto that its writer, Victoria Robson, has penned and the first time that established company member Amelia Szluha has taken on the choreography.
The production will also see Tilly Harriss take on her first lead role for Centre Stage, as she plays Snow White.
The nemesis of the eponymous character, the Evil Queen, is being played by James’s mum, Jacqui Player, a seasoned performer who also choreographed last year’s panto that her son directed.
Emily Bonfield takes on the part of Prince Florian and in playing Widow Bunny, Sam Barker has created history by becoming the first female dame that Centre Stage has ever had.
Another notable first for the production sees Zoe Hunt take on her first role for the company. She plays Fairy Flo. The Magic Mirror will be voiced by talented youngster Oliver Reid.
Tony Trott is the musical director and will oversee a playlist that includes We Built This City, by Starship, Total Eclipse of the Heart, by Bonnie Tyler, Toxic, by Britney Spears and Count on Me, by Bruno Mars.
The song list plays a particular part in any panto, as James explained: “It’s what keeps the story flowing. It’s like, if you can’t talk it, sing it.”
Snow White will be staged at Haverhill Arts Centre on Saturday, January 18 at 4.30pm, Sunday 19th at 1pm and 4.30pm, Friday 24th at 7pm and Saturday 25th at 3pm and 7pm.
To buy a ticket call 01440 714140 or visit https://haverhillartsentre.co.uk/