The Snow Queen, from artistic director Nancy Hirst and staged by Icon Theatre company, is a truly delightful family show that the audience embraced wholeheartedly from beginning to end. The performance I attended was filled with families, many with preschool and early years children, and it was clear from the start that the production had been carefully designed with them in mind. What makes this show particularly special is that it comprises only three actors, yet they manage to create an atmosphere of joy, wonder, and connection that feels much larger than the cast itself.
Before the show even began, the performers joined the audience to interact with the children. This simple gesture set the tone for the entire experience. The children were visibly thrilled, their faces lighting up with excitement, while the actors themselves radiated genuine pleasure in talking to and asking the children questions. It felt like a heartfelt exchange, as if the performers were inviting the children into their world of imagination and play. That authenticity carried through the entire performance.
I attended the 11:00a.m. show, the first of three scheduled for the day. This timing proved ideal for young children, who were bright, alert, and ready to engage. At just 55 minutes long, the performance struck the perfect balance: long enough to immerse the audience in its story and magic, but short enough to leave families with plenty of time to enjoy the rest of their day.
The set design, created by Laura McEwen, was enchanting in its simplicity. It evoked the feel of a fairytale, with effective backdrops and silhouette trees that glowed softly when lit. Snowflakes and stars hung above, adding a Christmassy sparkle that immediately transported the audience into a winter wonderland. The costumes of the mice were fairly simple but as the show progressed the costumes became more elaborate, reflecting the depth of the narrative and adding visual richness without overwhelming the young viewers.
The show itself blended storytelling, singing, movement, puppets and creative lighting. At every opportunity, the children were encouraged to participate—singing along, dancing, and mimicking the actors’ movements. This interactive requirement was not limited to the younger audience members; adults were also drawn into the fun, asked to join in and help “make the magic happen.” It was a clever way of ensuring that the entire audience, regardless of age, felt part of the journey.
The story begins with three mice—Gerda, Kai, and Gerda’s mother—whose tale becomes entwined with that of the Snow Queen. What follows is a quest to reunite friends and rediscover happiness in a cold, lonely world. This modern fairytale is both heartwarming and instructive. It teaches children that love is the key to overcoming sadness, and that friendship and kindness can melt even the iciest of hearts. The moral is clear yet beautifully delivered: it is okay to feel sad, but our friends are always there for us, and joy can be found in life’s simplest pleasures.
The original music by Eamon O’Dwyer added another layer of magic with fun themes and lyrics that children can follow. It underscored the storytelling with melodies that were both gentle and uplifting, perfectly suited to the atmosphere of the show. The music helped guide the emotional journey, enhancing moments of joy, tension, and resolution without ever overpowering the performers.
Although I attended without children, I could easily imagine how much my own daughter would have loved this production when she was younger. In fact, I was so impressed that as soon as I returned home, I recommended it to my neighbours, encouraging them to take their children. I am certain they will enjoy it just as much as I did.
Running until Christmas, the show offers plenty of opportunities for families and schools to attend. Ticket prices are reasonable, and transport links to Deptford are easy, leaving parents with no excuses.
This is, without doubt, one of the best family shows of Christmas 2025—a production that combines artistry, warmth, and moral depth in a way that will leave audiences smiling long after they leave the theatre.
The show runs from 6th to the 24th December 2025 Tickets from £10
www.thealbanytheatre.org.uk ticketing@thealbany.org.uk
Reviewer - Penny Curran
On - 6th December 2025
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