THE SNOW SHOW: EAST 'O THE SUN AND WEST 'O THE MOON is based on a Norwegian fairy tale - the Scandinavian version of beauty and the beast.  The beast in this case is a ten foot tall polar bear and the beauty is Hanna, well-played by Manon St-Jules.  On her journey to the castle of the trolls where her polar prince is imprisoned, she meets the four winds, played by stilt walkers dressed in streaming grey gauze and twinkling lights, a giant chicken and many other fantastic characters.

The show is produced by the NAC in association with Caravan Farm Theatre and the script is adapted by Amiel Gladstone.  The unusual sets are by Estelle Shook and the striking costumes by Marina Szijarto.  Martin Conboy is responsible for the wonderful outdoor lighting and Karin Randoja for the music, which includes Norwegian folk songs.

The entire cast is excellent, especially the trolls and Paul Rainville as the Father.  Mr. Rainville also does a hilarious turn as the world's oldest cowboy.

THE SNOW SHOW should get a whole troop of Royal Canadian Mounted Police, as it's not just the play, but the entire experience that's magical.  To watch it outdoors from a sleigh pulled by beautiful Clydesdales with lights twinkling through the trees - well, what fun!  Todd Moe was with me and I'm sure has something to add.

(To hear the rest of the conversation, go to the audio.)