White Rock’s Snow Queen Panto lights up the season with big laughs, bold energy and a fresh twist on a classic tale. A cheerful escape for all ages.
A Show That Lifts the Season
Right now, Marine Drive glows with The Bright Walk. Yet the true spark in Uptown shines inside the Oceana PARC Playhouse. The White Rock Players bring The Snow Queen Panto to life with fast jokes, bold moves and warm humor. And because the world feels heavy, this joyful show lands at the perfect time.
Crowds felt that magic on the gala night of Dec. 5. The full house cheered, laughed and enjoyed every moment. Tickets are moving fast, so the rush is on.
A Creative Team That Delivers
Director Lisa Pavilionis leads with heart and fun. She brings out the best in both new actors and seasoned panto stars. Because of that, the stage stays bright and alive.
Music director Marquis Byrd and choreographer Leslie Kuny keep the beat steady with lively songs and smooth dance numbers. The whole group shines. Every performer gets a moment. Younger cast members, though, may want to slow down their lines so each joke lands.
A Wild Twist on a Classic Tale
This is not the Andersen story you expect. Instead, the plot imagines a version of White Rock ruled by a Snow Queen who loves big plans and big power. Mariah Reitmeier plays her with firm charm and a voice that warms the room.
Her icy team includes:
- Amanda Wong as a dramatic and sharp Personal Evil Assistant
- Ryan Elliott as Henchman Bob, back with strong song and dance
- Alexander Robbins as Henchman Doug, who shows bright comic skills
Under their rule, winter never ends. Streets fill with snow. The locals work nonstop to clear it.
A Cast Full of Lively Heroes
The town’s crew includes:
- Mama Milla, the classic Dame, played with wild humor by Bryce Mills
- Hannah, her sweet daughter, played by newcomer Shaylee Grant
- Ellie, a former Elf on the Shelf, played with charm by Charlize Matheson
Hope arrives through the Snow Queen’s son, Prince Henrik, played with warm heart by Sin Li. He wants to save both the city and the girl he loves. Because of that, he teams up with Olaf, the upbeat sidekick played by James Atkin, who jumps into the fun with full spirit.
Good, Evil and Plenty of Laughs
As always, good and evil clash. This year, Fairy Summer, played by Sarah Paul, brings sunny wit and joy. Kimball Finigan, as the Hobgoblin, adds sharp humor and clear emotion. Kids cheer. Kids boo. Grownups laugh for different reasons. The jokes come fast, and many jokes land with a smart wink.
Bruce Cameron gives a crisp turn as a royal trumpeter. Jane Lowe adds heart as a senior rescued by Hannah. Scott Kristjanson brings big laughs in a role kept secret for fun. His final duet with Mama Milla brings a warm finish.
A Running Gag That Keeps Rolling
Victoria Mills, as Brittineigh, adds Gen Z sparkle with wild slang. Julia Woodrow Ralph follows her as a live translator. The bit gets loud laughs. A slower pace, though, would let each line shine.
A Chorus Full of Spark
Energy fills the stage thanks to the chorus: Sabine Lapointe, Liv Ricardo, Ella Davidson, Sophie Pelletier, Lexus Keffer, Laurel Winkler, Mandy Lockhart, Amy Troxell and Emily Lorteau. The last two also bring life to Shenanigans the giraffe. It is pure panto joy.
A Colourful World, Even in Winter
Costume designer Laura McKenzie and her team deliver classic panto style. Winter tones soften the palette, yet the looks still pop. Storybook sets from Carla Maskall and Robin Maggs charm the crowd. More pieces would add even more magic, but the design still feels warm and fun.
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