Review: SLAVA’S SNOW SHOW, Harold Pinter Theatre

Slava’s Snow Show has been delighting audiences for decades and shows no signs of losing its charm. A family favourite, it transforms adults into wide-eyed children while introducing little ones to a world of wonder.

Created by the legendary Slava Polunin, one of the world’s most celebrated clowns, the show proudly carries the rich tradition of Russian clowning. At 74, Polunin remains a master of his craft, his precision and experience shining through in every gesture. His influence on the art form is immense and witnessing him perform is a privilege. The ensemble cast complements his brilliance, demonstrating technical skill and playful spontaneity in equal measure.

The production’s creativity is boundless, with imaginative use of props fashioned from everyday materials. It’s a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of its creators, transforming simple objects into tools of magic and mischief. This inventive approach, paired with the timeless art of classic clowning, results in a performance that feels deeply rooted in tradition yet captivatingly fresh.

Slava’s Snow Show excels in its ability to touch the human spirit. With its precise comedic timing and heartwarming simplicity, it’s the kind of theatre that nourishes the soul. It’s no wonder that audiences, including many of us at West End Best Friend, return time and time again.

Admittedly, the show’s themes and style might feel somewhat dated, speaking little to contemporary times. However, there’s an important place for theatre like this—where pure joy takes precedence over profound messages. In fact, it’s this ability to strip away complexity and reconnect audiences with their most basic human emotions that makes the show truly special.

Without giving away spoilers, the ending of the show is an epic sensory and joyful moment that sees audiences leaving the auditorium with ginormous smiles. This is a truly immersive yet non intimidating experience. There are bubbles, balls and yes…snow!

To laugh is a gift, and Slava’s Snow Show is an enchanting reminder of that. It’s a celebration of silliness, wonder, and shared experience. And a final tip: be sure to stay in the auditorium during the interval, you won’t regret it.

***** Five stars

Reviewed by: Stephanie Osztreicher

Slava’s Snow Show plays at London’s Harold Pinter Theatre until 12 January 2025, with tickets available here:

https://prf.hn/click/camref:1101lj9MS/destination:https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/slavas-snowshow/

Photo credit: Veronique Vial

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