This is such a magical new chapter for a much-loved Christmas classic and it easily gets a full 5 stars from us.
There are few stories as synonymous with Christmas as Raymond Briggs’ The Snowman™️. For generations, its tale of an extraordinary friendship has captured imaginations, enchanting theatre audiences at The Rep, Birmingham for 33 years. And it is back in Birmingham with a spectacular new production and oh my is it good.
Presented in partnership with Sadler’s Wells, this world premiere breathes fresh life into a familiar story, retaining the charm and emotional parts of the original while introducing an abundance of theatre magic that makes it feel wonderfully new.
I am sure you all, already know, but just incase, the story follows a young boy whose snowman comes to life one winter’s night, sparking an extraordinary adventure that takes them from the family home to the North Pole and beyond. Along the way, they encounter an assortment of colourful characters, including Father Christmas, his reindeer and a mischievous pair of snow sprites, before returning home for a bittersweet farewell.
Directed and choreographed by Olivier Award-winner Will Tuckett, the production is a celebration of visual storytelling. With no need for dialogue to carry the narrative, the performers communicate through movement, gesture and beautifully judged physical comedy. The relationship between the Boy (played by Tate in this performance) and the Snowman develops naturally, creating a friendship that is both playful and genuinely touching. I want my own snowman friend.
The puppetry is particularly impressive. The reindeer, peacocks and rabbits are wonderful (well done Daisy Beattie, whose work we also loved in the RSC’s The BFG), while the Snowman himself is brought to life with so much character, charm and some mischief, thanks to the brilliant design work of Tahra Zafar (who I must highlight was the incredible designer behind Paddington Bear on stage). I don’t know if I was seeing things but it definitely looked like the Snowman was blinking at times.
There’s a wonderful physicality to the Snowman, capturing his innocence, curiosity and playful nature – if a little mischievous. Ha! The supporting puppets and ensemble bring further energy and life to the production, keeping the stage constantly alive with activity.
Anna Fleischle’s production design creates a world that moves effortlessly between the familiar warmth of the family home and the vast, fantastical landscapes of the Boy’s adventure. The quick set changes are particularly impressive, moving seamlessly from the kitchen to the lounge and then the bedroom without interrupting the flow of the story. It’s a striking set, one that Anna should be very proud of.
The choreography by Will Tuckett makes excellent use of the space, while the lighting design by Matt Daw and video design by Nina Dunn for PixelLux help transport the audience through a series of increasingly spectacular scenes.
It is the special effects and illusions, designed by Chris Fisher, that really elevate this production. Without giving away its many surprises, there are some wonderfully executed illusions and aerial sequences that create moments of genuine wonder. I suspect there were plenty of open-mouthed children and smiling adults in the audience! I know we were.
Howard Blake’s much-loved score provides the emotional backbone of the production, with Walking in the Air an inevitable highlight (it took everything in me not to sing along!). Hearing this iconic music in the theatre brings an added sense of nostalgia, but the production never feels as though it is relying solely on memories of the original film. Instead, the music is woven beautifully into a fresh and engaging version, under the musical direction of Andy Massey.
That particular scene (and I’m sure you know exactly which one I’m talking about) is one I think will stay with people as a forever theatre memory. The combination of Howard Blake’s iconic music and the visual spectacle creates a truly unforgettable moment.
You will be glad to hear that there is also plenty of giggles. The Snowman’s antics around the family home provide some of the production’s funniest moments, and it was lovely to hear laughter coming from all corners of the auditorium. Indeed, the adults appeared to be enjoying themselves every bit as much as the children, which for me is the sign of a very good show.
Yet beneath all the giggles and playful moments, there is an emotional aspect to this production too. The final scenes are beautifully handled, retaining the poignancy that has made The Snowman™️ such a well loved story. There’s a lovely message here about friendship, childhood and cherishing the moments we have, and one that I think will resonate with both adults and children.
A special mention must go to Tate, who played The Boy at tonight’s performance. His dancing was fantastic, with such confidence, precision and natural expression. His performance was wonderfully engaging, capturing the excitement, curiosity and innocence of the young boy with real charm. The role is shared between four young performers – Felix, Jake, Tristan and Tate – and we were lucky enough to see Tate bring this much-loved character to life. A truly fabulous performance.
My girls were also excited to spot Jake’s name in the programme, having become huge fans of his through the BBC show Stage Stars. They’re now rather keen to return and see him take on the role too.
This is a production that understands exactly what makes the original story so treasured, while having the confidence and creativity to take it somewhere new. Visually spectacular and technically brilliant. It captured everything we love about live theatre: the ability to surprise, delight and leave an audience with a forever memory.
A five-star production, without hesitation.
Whether you are introducing a new generation to The Snowman™️ or returning to a story you have loved for years, this is an opportunity to experience something very very special.
The world premiere runs at Birmingham Rep until 1 November 2026, so there is very little time left to catch it. If you can get tickets, do. This is an absolute must-see.
Book your tickets here: https://www.birmingham-rep.co.uk/whats-on/the-snowman-2026/
Disclaimer: I was invited along to the World Premiere Press Screening to review the production.