Children’s Snow White

Press, 23 January 1984, Page 6

Children’s Snow White

“Snow White” directed by Sara Brodie for the Pierrot Players, at the Shirley Community Centre, January 21 to 28. Week-ends 2 p.m. Weekdays 7 p.m. Running time: 50mins. Reviewed by Gerrit Bahlman.

Did you ever want to know why Snow White’s mother died and why the king married the evil stepmother and why the poisoned apple didn’t kill Snow White immediately? Well, this production might just be the one that provides the answers.

Pierrot Players is a children’s theatre group in more ways than one. “Snow

White” is written, produced, directed, acted and presented by children. The ages of the 22 actors range from four to 14.

The production charms because of its urgency and determination that everything will work perfectly. From the intense salesmanship of the programme seller to the efficient encouragement of the director throughout the performance, there is not a doubt that the company means business. The Snow White story is given an embroidered airing which focuses on the evil machinations of the stepmother (Sandra Kent), and

her disruptive feline companion Mildew (Rochelle Morgan). Murmured and hasty whispered instructions such as "Now! Now!” and “Bring the coffin on!” add charm to a thoroughly ambitious production. The use of song, dance, gymnastics (by Sarah Terras as the Jester), good costuming and some very good lighting and sound effects give the show polish.

While adults were used in a consultative role, they are quick to give credit to the children, who brought together all the ingredients of theatre from script to make-up and costuming.