Review: Directions Theatre Arts Showcase at Chesterfield’s Pomegranate Theatre

Carly Hopkinson swelled her chances of global stardom by singing with Andrea Bocelli and Jose Carreras in Rome on Sunday.

While their greatest success story is unable to join Directions Theatre Arts’ 21st anniversary showcase this week, it is apt that the celebratory production launches in fairytale fashion at the Pomegranate Theatre.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is a charming creation by Jessica Spanier, featuring delightful singing and choreography which is every bit as good as you would see in a professional panto.

Ruby Payne is a lovely Snow White, James Morgan a golden-voiced Prince and Emma Southworth a powerful presence as the cackling Wicked Queen. The dwarfs are led by Dominic Stephenson who towers over six-year-old Mia Macmillan-Wood.

This is Ruby and Dominic’s last show with Directions before going off to higher education and a poignant dance celebrates their journey.

No doubt theyll be back for a special occasion, mirroring the return of 30-something ex-students Chris Measham, Chris Heathcote and Ashley Crowther who contribute to a fantastic Jersey Boys finale.

Award-winning dances and gravity-defying gymnastics put the icing on this large anniversary cake.