Arts > Theatre

Slava's Snow Show

Norwich Theatre Royal

22/11/17

Slava's Snow Show is a worldwide hit, with performances going down a storm from Moscow to Mexico. And why? Why should the world have fallen in love with this performance? Because the simple pleasures in life are the best.

The superb sound, evocative lighting and wildly imaginative sets are beautifully realised, yet it's the simplcity of the subtlety of Slava and his fellow clowns that make this such a wonderful show. Russian clowning is not a craft I am too aware of, but it appears from my research that Slava is one of the very best in the world, and his bonkers, brilliant projects and pieces have been a great and ongoing success for him. There's a little of the Makka Pakka in his glum but determined gait, and a touch of the Danny DeVito in his stance, all of which make him even more lovable. The first 20 minutes sees the audience trying to work out what's happening, find a narrative, but there isn't really one - we are in the hands of Slava's set pieces. Some were more effective and memorable than others, some were particularly Russian in humour, some were a treat for the eyes, some were so tender and dear that I actually cried, some were very funny and some took my breath away with absolute wonder. He is a master of his craft indeed. The fact that this show has been being performed since 1993 yet still feels so fresh and genuine shows that.

The grand finale sees a barrage of bloody massive inflatable balls landing in the audience, following a snowstorm on stage that whips paper confetti through us and over us - cracking stuff. The joyful faces of both adults and children in the audience were truly a sight to behold. An interactive, sweet and imaginative night indeed.