One Snowy Night – 5th December 2010
This afternoon we took the girls along to Norden Farm to see their performance of One Snowy Night.
The show takes place in the attractively balconied Courtyard Theatre which seats 225 people and consists of just three actors – one playing the part of Percy, the other two taking the roles of puppeteers for all of the various animals in the park.
Having read the book, we were slightly skeptical as to how it could be stretched out to fill a whole 50 minute performance and made our way into the theatre along with a mixture of young families and children escorted by their grandparents.
While we waited for the play to begin we were entertained by the sound of birdsong and the sight of two ‘birds’ being flown from the balcony – an unusual and effective way of keeping children entertained.
Without giving too much away for those who haven’t read the book or seen the show, it begins with a scene in the park which doesn’t feature in the story.
Half-way through the performance, the set is transformed to represent the inside of Percy’s hut in the park and it is from this point that the book is brought to life.
Terence Frisch proves to be an entertaining Percy engaging in various amusing songs and by-play with the two puppeteers. His warm, friendly and jovial tones are perfect for keeping the younger members of the audience interested.
The puppeteers provide excellent support for Percy, and although they are visible throughout the show, you find yourself almost forgetting about them. Each animal is given its own ‘voice’ and characteristics and all are charmingly brought to life.
Overall, the performance was excellent. The stage set was simple but effective and the theatre was comfortable and clean.
The final scene of One Snowy Night
One Snowy Night is to be recommended for both children and adults alike.
This was our first visit to Norden Farm and I’m certain that it won’t be our last.
A Few Ramblings... 