Slava’s SnowShow
Theatre Royal Brighton
until Sunday 15th December
Before opening for 3 weeks at the Harold Pinter Theatre.
Tonight, I took a very spontaneous trip to the Theatre Royal Brighton and the visit proved once again that when it comes to theatre, it is always worth a punt on something out of the box. On paper, Slava’s SnowShow wouldn’t be a usual choice for me, but the preconceptions I had quickly dispersed, and it transpired into a beautiful and exhilarating night at the theatre and one I shall remember for a long time.
The multi-award winning Slava’s Snow Show is created, written, designed and co-directed by Russian clown Slava Polunin. Highly trained and considered the best in his field Slava, and a company of seven other clowns take us on a whimsical journey through magical scenarios. The vignettes are a mix of light-heartedness and heartbreak but all are truly absorbing.
The use of special effects is out of this world. Although the show doesn’t have a Christmas theme, haze, bubbles and a mountain of tickertape create perfect wintery settings, so perfect for this time of year. There are many immersive elements to the show, and the audience are often involved (don’t arrive late – it will be picked up on). Surprise after surprise unfolds but nothing prepares you for the final scene – no spoilers here but let’s just say it was totally immersive and I have never seen anything like it in a traditional theatre. Truly Spectacular.
Slava’s SnowShow is a dazzling alternative to pantomime this Christmas and I highly recommend it. For the full-on immersive experience get seating in the stalls, but to simply watch and enjoy masters at work, elsewhere will be absolutely fine.
Reviewer: Sammi O’Neill
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐