Nothing can throw a cast off balance more than an understudy taking to the stage on a Press Night However, press night for Snow White The Fairest Panto of them all saw two understudies take to the stage. Their nerves must have been through the roof, although it barely showed.
Matt Dingley in the role of Muddles and Danny Lee West as the Pantomime Dame Nurse Nelly. Apart from a few minor script slips from Muddles, the two understudies smashed their debut performances.
We watch Darcy James in the role of a rather dim Prince Charming alongside Sophie-Rose Emery as the beautiful and “fairest of them all” Snow White. Emery delivers a strong and enchanting performance. There’s a rapport on stage between the couple and they do make a lovely Pantomime happy-ever-after couple.
Julia Worsley casts a formidable shadow over the stage in the role of the Queen. Encouraging all the “boos” you can gather and throw them (verbally) in her direction. With Worsley‘s confidence and stage presence, it is hard to believe this is her first year performing Pantomime at Theatre Royal, she is usually found in the King’s Theatre Portsmouth Pantomime.
Seven children were playing the roles of the Dwarves who take in Snow White and give her a safe place to live. Press night saw the orange team taking on these roles. The names have been slightly changed but still have the same interpretation.
Fred Dineage is the “man” in the Mirror who the Queen consults daily. He uses a familiar catch phrase “How” for now. However, the younger audience members were slightly confused by this and told to ask their parents although in many cases probably their Grandparents. I do love a touch of nostalgia especially as the Pantomime is for all the family.
One of the things I enjoyed most about Snow White The Fairest Panto of them all is that the entire cast appears to be thoroughly enjoying themselves and with two major understudies they all pulled together to add some seasonal cheer to the auditorium.
For more information about Snow White The Fairest Panto of them all and future productions at Theatre Royal Portsmouth please use the link below.
Four Stars.
Photo credit Steve Spurgin.
Theatre, Art and Film Reviews 
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