SNOW BABY. To 31 December.

Glasgow

SNOW BABY
by Rick Conte, Jay Manley and Gill Robertson based on a story by Terry Jones

Tron (The Changing House) To 31 December 2005
19-23 Dec 10.30am & 1.30pm; 24,28-31 Dec 11am & 1.30pm
Runs 50min No interval

TICKETS: 0141 552 4267
www.tron.co.uk
Review: Timothy Ramsden 19 Decermber

A Snow Baby to melt any heart.
On a 3rd viewing this piece for 3+ remains as much a marvel as at first sight. Combining comedy with emotional depth it's a story of
loneliness at Christmas redeemed by a visitor from the sky. It's remarkable in not having young people at its hea, but adults. Miss Kendall and her neighbour are on friendly terms but he's the one with the pile of presents, from whose home party noises sound out. She sits alone, every Christmas song on the radio reminding her of her isolation; Silent Night has never had so sad a meaning.

Miss Kendall has a cheery enough external manner but it's when the Snow Baby, Shona Reppe's remarkably expressive white puppet skilfully operated by Rick Conte, arrives that she becomes truly joyful. This playful, mischevious, demanding child takes her out of herself and out of her home. It also offers affection and emotional responses, giving her a purpose for the season.

Catherine Wheels Theatre Company allow plenty of fun - the Baby born surprised aloft by a balloon, its innocent enjoyment of a snow fight - as well as such telling moments as when it offers the scarf Miss Kendall's given it back to keep her warm. And when, in the manner of all good things coming to an end, the Baby returns as a series of lights to its star-home, good things have not come to an end. The scarf remains, with its memories, as much more than a piece of clothing when post-Christmas normality returns.

Claire Knight's relation with her co-star (which really ought to be brought back for the curtain-call) is excellent. This beautifully- directed piece is already one of my Christmas classics and a visit would be a treat for any young cxhild and every parent or relation lucky enough to see it.

Neighbour/The Snow Baby: Rick Conte
Miss Kendall: Claire Knight

Director: Gill Robertson
Original Director: Jay Manley
Designer: Karen Tennent
Lighting: Craig Fleming
Composer: Robert Burlin
Snow Baby Puppet:Shona Reppe

2005-12-19 16:03:19