It's almost impossible to pin down exactly what Slava's Snow Show is. Maybe it's a circus, perhaps it's a pantomime - but one thing's for sure, it's an exceptional piece of artistry.
The production describes itself as a 'universal and timeless theatrical poetic spectacle'. First conceived in 1993, Slava's Snow Show has been seen in hundreds of cities across dozens of countries resulting in millions of ecstatic spectators
The show surrounds you (quite literally) with somewhat of a visual and sensory overload, scratching an itch in your brain you didn't realise you had. Everything about Snow Show is simple.
From the personalities of the clowns to the set and props. Whether it's a bed becoming a boat, cotton webs engulfing the audience or giant inflatables being let loose, this production takes you back to the childhood innocence you had in your early years.
The performers, however, are what bring this piece to life. All of them absolute masters of their craft, the subtlety of a head tilt, or a change of expression changed the mood of an entire auditorium - and they do it so well. The audience had genuine empathy for each and every one of them and they rewarded us with a stunning performance.
Every scene brought a sense of wonder and intrigue, along with a strange feeling of calm. A number of set pieces are synonymous with the show and none more so than the snowstorm of tiny white paper flakes and the giant inflatable balls bouncing around the auditorium at the end.
This show promises to make you walk out of the theatre smiling, and during that climax in particular, there were grown adults running round like children and it was a joy to see.
Slava's Snow Show plays at The Alexandra until Saturday 15th November. For more information, or tickets, visit atgtickets.com/birmingham.
