The New Victoria Theatre has pulled out all the stops for this year’s festive production, and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs turns out to be exactly the kind of joyful, glittering panto audiences look forward to at Christmas. It is colourful, cheeky and full of warmth — the sort of show that genuinely wants its audience to have a brilliant time.

A Cast That Knows How to Entertain

Woking’s 2025 cast is a genuine highlight. Lesley Joseph revels in every moment as the Wicked Queen, offering a deliciously theatrical villain who balances wickedness with well-judged humour. Rob Rinder, in his panto debut as the Man in the Mirror, is charismatic and engaging, building an easy rapport with the audience that feels confident and naturally funny. Aaron James brings bags of charm and mischief as Muddles, keeping children giggling and adults smiling throughout. Together, the cast radiate an infectious energy that carries the show beautifully.

The Dwarfs Bring Heart and Humour

One of this production’s strongest elements is its brilliant dwarf ensemble. Each performer gives their dwarf a unique personality, and their group scenes are full of character and comic timing. Their warmth adds emotional depth, elevating the fairy tale beyond the usual panto stereotypes. Their scenes consistently earn applause and are among the most memorable moments of the evening.

A Visual Feast From Start to Finish

Visually, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is a delight. The set design is rich and imaginative, from the Wicked Queen’s spell-filled laboratory to glittering palace interiors and charming woodland scenes. Younger audience members were particularly captivated by the Queen’s magical transformations and potion-making sequence. Costumes are bright, lavish and full of panto sparkle, creating a visually satisfying experience from beginning to end.

Classic Panto Magic Done Well

This is pantomime in its most traditional, feel-good form. Expect classic call-and-response moments, slapstick, familiar songs, cheeky jokes aimed at adults and enthusiastic audience participation. The script keeps things light and lively, and the cast commit wholeheartedly to the fun. Children were fully engaged, and the atmosphere in the theatre felt warm, communal and festive. If your family enjoys traditional pantomime, this production delivers it confidently and generously.

Act Two Finds Its Rhythm

Act Two eases into a gentler pace, giving the storyline more breathing room after the high-energy first half. A couple of comedy moments take their time, but they are delivered with such enthusiasm that the audience is more than happy to go along with them. The musical numbers in this half feel warmer and more heartfelt, building towards one of the show’s most charming traditions.

The act concludes with a lively tongue-twister sing-along, complete with children invited up onto the stage to join the cast. The lyrics are projected onto a big screen, encouraging the entire audience to take part. It is chaotic, funny and wonderfully inclusive — exactly the sort of feel-good moment that reminds you why pantomime is such a beloved festive staple. This big communal finish brings the show to a colourful, joy-filled close and ensures the evening ends on a high.

Final Verdict: A Warm, Funny and Festive Treat

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

Woking’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is a bright, feel-good pantomime that gets the balance just right — visually impressive, genuinely funny and full of heart. With a charismatic cast, memorable performances and magical staging, it is a wonderful way to celebrate the season and one of Woking’s most enjoyable pantos in recent years.