Cast and creatives announced for The Snow Queen and Night Before Christmas at Polka Theatre

Casting and creatives have been announced for Polka Theatre’s two winter shows for 2023.

The children’s London theatre will stage The Snow Queen from 11 November – 21 January in its Main Theatre, recommended for ages 6-12, and while Night Before Christmasruns in the Adventure Theatre from 18 November – 14 January for younger audiences aged 2-6.

The Snow Queen, written by Jude Christian based on the classic story by Hans Christian Andersen, will be directed by Emma Baggott, and stars Finlay McGuigan , Joe Boylan , Paula James, Phoebe Naughton and Rebecca Wilson .

Gerda is on the magical quest of a lifetime. Her best friend Kai has disappeared with the mysterious Snow Queen, and if Gerda doesn’t rescue him soon, he’ll be trapped in an endless winter forever.

Come on an unforgettable and thrilling adventure where the strength of friendship is tested to its limits, and nothing is quite what it seems in the fantastical, frosty world of The Snow Queen.

Jude Christian said, “Polka is a magical place for families and communities, and Christmas is the most wondrous time of year to make theatre, so I couldn’t be more excited to be part of The Snow Queen. We want to make a show that’s noisy and caring and masses of fun, inspired by this beautiful story about best friends and the adventure of growing up together.”

The Night Before Christmas – an original play by Hattie Naylor inspired by Clement Clarke Moore‘s much-loved poem ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’ featuring original music, skilful puppetry and a generous sprinkling of festive magic – is directed by Roman Stefanski, designed by Kate Bunce, with music by Julian Butler and lighting by Aaron J Dootson. Victoria Chen and Jack Kelly will perform.

Amber is six and loves reindeer! It’s Christmas Eve but Grandad is feeling tired and Amber’s favourite snow-globe gets broken. Then her world is turned topsy turvy by a surprise visitor and Amber begins an adventure she will never forget.

Join us on a festive journey like no other – after all, on the night before Christmas, anything can happen.

Roman Stefanski said: “I can’t wait to welcome audiences to Polka’s Adventure Theatre and to our revival of the hugely popular The Night Before Christmas. It’s Christmas Eve and the tree has finally been decorated but not much else. Join Amber, Grandad and a delightful reindeer companion as they try to find their Christmas spirit. I hope audiences young and old will enjoy this returning favourite with more than a dash of festive magic!”

For more information and tickets, visit polkatheatre.com

About the author: Josh Darvill

Josh is Stageberry's editor with over five years of experience writing about theatre in the West End and across the UK. Prior to following his passion for musicals, he worked for more than a decade as a TV journalist.

 

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