It’s not Christmas until you’ve watched at least one festive film so why not step it up a notch this season with a trip to the theatre?
The Peacock’s “The Snowman” is returning to the city once again and it’s promising to deliver a jam-packed Christmassy treat. Based on the book by Raymond Briggs and produced by John Coates, this charming stage adaptation is guaranteed to transport you to a world of wintery adventure.
With music and lyrics by Howard Blake, including Walking in the Air, choreography by Robert North, directed by Bill Alexander, alongside Ruari Murchison’s enchanting design combined with Tim Mitchell’s spectacular lighting, The Snowman continues to enchant audiences with a captivating mix of dance, live music, storytelling, spectacle and magic.
You might think you’re familiar with The Snowman (and really, what was your childhood without watching it at least once a year?) but chances are you don’t know everything there is to know about The Peacock’s version. Read on to find out more!
1. The Snowman is currently in its 22nd consecutive year at The Peacock
Birmingham Repertory Theatre’s production of The Snowman is a much-loved Christmas classic, and has been running for 22 years consecutively at The Peacock since its first performance back in 1998. Over this time, The Snowman has been seen by over half a million people.
2. The Snowman started life as a picture book
The Snowman is based on a picture book by Raymond Briggs, first published in 1978. The book was swiftly adapted into a half hour animated television special by Dianne Jackson for Channel 4 and was first broadcast on boxing day 1982. It was a huge hit, particularly for its magical score by Howard Blake which included the ever-popular Walking In The Air, sung originally by Peter Auty.
3. The Snowman actually flies during the performance
As part of the stage production The Snowman can be seen to actually fly across the stage with The Boy. When he’s not flying, he’s dancing with other characters: which include the Ice Princess, Jack Frost, and Father Christmas himself!
4. The Snowman has toured across the world
The Snowman has been seen across the world, and this year is also visiting Hong Kong and Singapore for the first time ever.
5. The Snowman is where Aled Jones’ voice was first heard
In 1985, Aled Jones recorded a cover version of Walking in the Air, which reached number 5 in the UK charts and launched his career as a performer. Aled Jones recently recorded a new version, which is being used in this year’s production of The Snowman.
Birmingham Repertory Theatre’s The Snowman is running at Sadler’s Wells’ West End theatre, The Peacock from 21 November – 5 January. For tickets, click here or call the box office on 020 7836 8000