The Snow Queen

Actor Musicians

Much of our talented cast are also playing some instruments in the show!

Denzel Baidoo – Cajon

James Burman – Trumpet and Drums

Tian Chaudhry – Accordion

Esmée Cook – Violin

Rory Alexander – Accordion

Danial Radze – Tenor Recorder

Kiera Lester – Acoustic and Electric Guitar

Heloise Lowenthal – Soprano Saxophone

Alice Moore – Bass Guitar and Tambourine

Jo Patmore – Drums

Jake Simmance – Treble Recorder

Chanel Waddock – Tambourine

Joel Williams - Production Electrician

What does the role of Production Electrician entail?

The Production Electrician works closely with the Lighting Designer to install a lighting rig into the theatre to supplement the performance. The main parts of my job are to make sure we have all necessary equipment, whether that is hired or owned by the school. I am also responsible for the lighting rig in the theatre and looking after the maintenance of the rig during the shows.

Why did you choose to train in Production Arts at BOVTS?

I choose to study at BOVTS because at my interview I fell in love with the idea of putting shows on in different theatres across Bristol instead of just one venue. The course also suited me as it covers a wide spread of backstage jobs allowing me to get experience in different areas.

What has been your favourite experience at the School so far?

My favourite experience so far would have to be the get ins we do for our productions. Being a part of those teams just gives you a massive sense of comradery and it is great fun to work towards such a great goal.

Has the team faced any particular challenges when preparing for Snow Queen?

I would say our biggest challenge so far has to be the fact that the show is obviously based in the winter and it has scenes where there needs to be Northern Lights present, so looking into different creative ways to make them has been a challenge.

What have you enjoyed the most about working on Snow Queen?

For me I have enjoyed looking closely with the Lighting Designer and helping them create their vision on the stage.

Who should come to see the Snow Queen?

The Snow Queen is a family friendly show aimed at school children but there are definitely parts which suit people of all ages! We even have a relaxed performance for those who are new to theatre or are nervous about visiting which is a great experience for everyone!

Without giving too much away(!) what does the technical/creative team have in store for the audience?

I would say the technical and creative team definitely have some very fun surprises in store for any audience member and that you will have to come along to see them!

Stage Manager - Charlotte Woolley

What does the role of Stage Manager entail?

As Stage Manager, you support the director, actors, designers and production and technical crew throughout the process. This involves scheduling rehearsals, sourcing and making props, budgeting and having overall responsibility for the Stage Management team. During the run of the show, I ensure that the Artistic and Technical integrity is maintained.

Why did you choose to train at BOVTS?

I chose to train here as this course is vocational, fully preparing you for the industry and allows you to become knowledgeable in numerous disciplines within Theatre, Film/TV. At 18 years old, London seemed too intimidating and expensive, but Bristol had the creative and quirky vibe I was looking for.

What has been your favourite experience at the School so far?

Having real hands on training that is reflective of the industry.

Has the team faced any particular challenges when preparing for Snow Queen?

One of the Stage Management team’s challenges has been to be able to conceal our concerned and worried faces when some of the cast members have been rehearsing in roller skates…!

What have you enjoyed the most about working on Snow Queen?

I have enjoyed the challenges that have come with this production, as there is such a variety of props that have needed to be made and sourced. And also taking the reins, guiding my team and ensuring that we know the show inside out.

Who should come to see the Snow Queen?

Anyone seeking to get in the Christmas Spirit!

Without giving too much away(!) what does the technical/creative team have in store for the audience?

With live music and flying scenery, it is definitely worth coming to watch!

Costume Supervisor - Becky Davies

What is the role of a Costume Supervisor?

Being a Costume Supervisor includes a lot of things! For example, attending production meetings, interpreting the Costume Designer’s drawings and making them a reality as well as hiring, buying and assigning made costumes and being the glue between the designer, makers and costume assistants. I also need to liaise  between all production departments, arrange and attend fittings (noting further alterations needed. Finally, I oversee the get-in, technical and dress rehearsals with the designer, advise the costume dressers and organise hair and make up sessions.

Why did you choose to train at BOVTS?

I chose BOVTS because the course is practical and we get to work on real live shows rather than theoretical ones like some other courses do.

What’s been your favourite experience at the School so far?

My favourite experience at BOVTS so far has been dressing Nicholas Nickelby last summer. It was a huge show and a big challenge at first, but there is a great atmosphere backstage and it’s a lot of fun.

What have you enjoyed about working on Snow Queen?

The thing I’ve enjoyed most about working on the Snow Queen so far has been putting the costumes together piece by piece- I find it really satisfying. There’s some really great costumes in the pipeline!

Why should people come and see the show?

There’s plenty of winter fun, comedy, music, dance, and some frosty surprises. Come along and get in the mood for Christmas!

Assistant Director - Victor Lirio

What does the role of Assistant Director entail?

The role of the assistant director (AD) is to help realise the director’s vision—both administratively and creatively—from the rehearsal room to opening night. The duties of the AD are quite flexible and will vary from production to production and director to director. They may include research, facilitating the rehearsal process, taking notes, and ensuring the entire production process runs smoothly. The assistant director is expected to proactively help the director track stage blocking as well as the director’s communication with all departments involved: cast, stage management, creative, technical, and production teams.

Why did you choose to train in Drama Directing at BOVTS?

I chose to train at BOVTS because it offers the most professional and immersive, practical experience. BOVTS boasts the best equipped departments and facilities which support our course and professional training in directing for radio, film, TV, and theatre. I am in my second term and have already expanded my professional skills as a director beyond the theatre. BOVTS encourages creativity, collaboration, and artistic autonomy. BOVTS tutors are professional practitioners that not only train with a pastiche of skills and techniques but provide deep industry insights as well.

What has been your favourite experience at the School so far?

My favourite experiences so far have been the collaborative project with the designers and our end-of-term Notional Project. Both were high level challenges artistically and intellectually because of their all-encompassing theoretical objectives: text, design, context, venue, production, technical, and creative teams. It was a no-stake opportunity to think large, to be subversive, and to push ourselves beyond our comfort zone.

This term has been quite a dream too, because I’ve been involved with and had the opportunity to assist and direct a succession of exciting and varied forms: radio drama, original film script, and, currently, a large-scale musical production. I’ve been blessed with generous, expert mentor directors to learn from in a practical platform.

What have you enjoyed the most about working on Snow Queen?

Rehearsals. There is nothing like being part of the creative, collaborative process; the discovery of the text, relationships, and histories; the creation of backstories; and the camaraderie, enthusiasm, and positive energy from the cast, stage management and production teams. Working with and learning from Paul Clarkson is definitely on top of the list. He and designer Bronia Housman have built a beautiful, original concept heightening Hans Christian Andersen’s themes resonant for today’s audiences while still being faithful to the marvelous journeys of the characters, Kai and Gerda.

Who should come to see the Snow Queen?

Snow Queen is a must-see show for all theatregoers. It illuminates universal themes of friendship, loyalty, kindness, generosity, authenticity, and love. It is fun, heartwarming, moving, and inspiring … an entertaining respite from the chaos of global politics.

Without giving too much away (!), what does the technical/creative team have in store for the audience?

Audiences can expect fabulous costumes, innovative choreography and musical staging, and a spectacular set transformation.