January 2023
ARTS DIARY
“The Snow Queen is, ultimately, a story about belonging.” EDITED BY KELLIE BURCH KELLIE@ULSTERTATLER.COM
Opening of The Snow Queen My festive season started with a sprinkle of snow and a whole lot of magic as I attended the opening night of The Snow Queen at the Lyric Theatre. I was very lucky to be accompanied to this imaginative and familyfriendly production by my seven-year-old niece - an occasion which also marked her first ever visit to this landmark theatre. Inspired by Hans Christian Anderson’s wintry fairytale, The Snow Queen is an original piece of work by writer, composer and director Paul Boyd.. It tells the story of Gerda, a young girl who must leave the sunny climes where she feels she belongs, and travel to Arctic-type conditions to save her best friend Kai from the clutches of the Snow Queen. Speaking of the production, Paul Boyd, who staged his first ever musical in the Lyric in 1992, said: “The Snow Queen is, ultimately, a story about belonging, and as much as Gerda feels that she belongs in the sunny climes of Blomsterby, my shows have, for more than two decades now, belonged at the Lyric Theatre.” From the catchy opening number to the plethora of memorable characters encountered on Gerda’s journey, it was obvious that this was going to be one tale that wouldn’t fail to entertain. The very talented cast were wonderfully complemented by choreography from Deborah Maguire and musical direction from Oli Rew. Set designer Stuart Marshall also did a tremendous job of transforming the stage from the sun-soaked Blomsterby to the baltic ice kingdom of the Snow Queen. And when the snow arrived, my niece’s face truly lit up. It was no surprise that the opening night was a sell-out with the audience, including actress Stella McCusker, journalist Denise Watson, and writer and playwright Amanda Verlaque, being completely transfixed by the tale of the Snow Queen. Rich in mystery, magic and musicality, the Snow Queen is definitely a show that entertains - regardless of your age. And it was the absolutely perfect way to kick start a memorable Christmas season. The opening night of The Snow Queen took place on 27 November and runs until 31 December.
Eden and Finn Harriott.
Stella Doyle and Stella McCusker with Connie and Saorlaith Doyle.
Rachel McNair and Kellie Burch.
Paul Mulholland, Clare Gault, Lily and Grace Walsh and Daniel Mulholland.
Denise Watson, Beth Scott, Charles Hailes and Julie Watson.
Rachel, Lynsey, Ruby and Jude Hall with great aunt Amanda Verlaque.
Sonya Stewart with Ava, Calen and Tracy Hayes.
Sheena and Patrick Early with Jovie McStravick and Daire Early.
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