Storyhouse Chester have announced casting for their magical seasonal show The Snow Queen, which will cast a spell over audiences this Christmas.

The bewitching Hans Christian Anderson fairytale comes to the Storyhouse stage from 10 December to 15 January 2023 in an enchanting adaptation by Charles Way. 

When shards of an enchanted mirror fly into Cei’s eye, he falls under its spell. He becomes cold-hearted and the Snow Queen steals him away to her far-off land where, with Cei as her helper, she has a chilling plan – to freeze the hearts of all living things and rule supreme over a world of ice and snow. 

Only little Gerda, Cei’s childhood friend, believes he can still be rescued, and sets out on a thrilling immersive journey – for Gerda and the audience - through the changing seasons to save Cei and defeat the Snow Queen, meeting a cast of eccentric and memorable characters along the way. 

Rosemarie Akwafo (The Play That Goes Wrong, Mischief) will play Gerda, with Taona Matope (The Wedding, Peepolykus) as Cai, Lucy Tuck (The Borrowers, Tobacco Factory Theatres) as the Snow Queen, Will Kirk (The Sicilian Courtesan/Between Eternity and Time, Richard Burton Theatre Company) as John/Daffodil/Fred/Laughing Robber, Kate Malyon (Mr Gum and the Dancing Bear, National Theatre) as Mrs Fyn/Frederica/Robber Woman, Tom Richardson (Pitlochry Festival Theatre season 2022) as Mr Overskou/Snowdrop/JJ/Bae, Chloe Wade (Three Sisters, Canal Café Theatre and tour) as Elsa/Bindweed/Lily/Robber Girl, and Flo Wilson (Small Island, National Theatre) as Grandmother/Mrs Dear. 

The production will be directed by Hannah Noone and will feature a live electric band headed by singer-songwriter Mared Williams on stage, along with spectacular fight scenes, magical aerial sequences and a guaranteed snowy white Christmas.  

Storyhouse Producer Helen Redcliffe said: “Storyhouse will be transformed into an enchanted winter wonderland this Christmas as we embark on an unmissable adventure into the realm of The Snow Queen. 

“I’m delighted we’re now able to reveal the talented cast of actors who are going to take audiences on this magical journey, so wonderfully realised by Charles Way’s adaptation and our brilliant creative team. It’s going to be an unforgettable festive season.” 

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