The Snowman celebrates 25 years on stage
It's the magical story that has been enchanting theatre audiences and melting hearts for 25 years.
Based on Raymond Briggs' much-loved book The Snowman stage show is now playing at Birmingham Repertory Theatre.
As well as Howard Blake's classic song Walking In The Air, it features a dazzling array of colourful characters, including dancing penguins, a beautiful snow princess, wicked Jack Frost and of course, Father Christmas himself.
First created in 1993, the Birmingham REP stage adaptation of The Snowman underwent many revisions in its early days since when the show has become a phenomenal success with tours in the UK, Far East and Scandinavia and a West End run at London’s Peacock Theatre. The much-loved show has now played to 1.9million people around the world.
One winter morning a little boy named James wakes up to find that everything outside has turned snow-white. Overjoyed, James rushes downstairs and into the garden, where he begins to build a snowman.
He opens the back door and he can't believe his eyes - the snowman has come to life. James finds himself face to face with a smiling snowman, who, with a polite doff of his hat, introduces himself and marks the beginning of a magical friendship and marvellous adventure.
They meet Father Christmas, dancing penguins, reindeer and crowds of The Snowman's friends.
But then they have to try to escape evil Jack Frost and make it back home in time for Christmas morning.
Stuart Rogers, executive director at Birmingham REP, said: “We are delighted to welcome The Snowman back home to The REP to celebrate its 25th birthday, and look forward to sharing the show’s magic with existing fans and a whole new generation of children as well.”
Inspired by the film directed by Dianne Jackson and produced by John Coates, Birmingham REP’s production of The Snowman features virtuoso choreography by Robert North, direction by Bill Alexander, design by Ruari Murchison, lighting by Tim Mitchell and unforgettable music and lyrics by Mr Blake.
*The Snowman runs until January 26. For tickets call 0121 236 4455 or see birmingham-rep.co.uk
