Snowy
★★★☆☆ Puppy fun
Studio Theatre: Wed 17 – Wed 31 Dec 2025
Review by Sophie Good
Loveable pup Snowy tumbles into the Studio Theatre until the end of December in a delightful production aimed at children under seven.
Capital Theatres’ latest co-production with Scottish Theatre Producers provides a cosy welcome at the Studio Theatre. As well as the usual seating for grown ups, cushions and beanbags line the front of the stage, ready for small people who wish to be close to the action.
Peter Collins and Stephanie MacGaraidh. Pic: Andrew Perry.
An appealing snow-capped townscape set, designed by Valerie Reid, is straight out of a story book. And in fact, when performer Peter Collins arrives, he discovers a book on stage which tells the tale of Snowy.
Snowy soon comes to life: A cute little fluffy white dog, beautifully rendered by puppet designer and maker Fergus Dunnet and performed with true canine character by Stephanie MacGaraidh. Collins is equally entertaining in a variety of roles which follow the adventure of Snowy as his giant snowball causes various mishaps around the town.
engaging narrative
Unlike many pieces aimed at this age range which are often non-verbal, Snowy has an engaging narrative which might suit young people who prefer to follow along a simple story. The adventure is of course very gentle, with plenty of audience interaction, including a shape sorting exercise and a ‘spot the lost cow’ caper which keep the very little ones interested over the piece’s 35 minutes.
Snowy even has a little sniff and playful bark at some of the front row which causes much excitement.
Stephanie MacGaraidh. Pic: Andrew Perry.
Co-creators and directors Jordan Blackwood and Ross MacKay have kept a wholesome, old-world story-book charm to the piece, which feels rooted in a wintery Scotland. Added authenticity comes from voice-overs recorded by P1 pupils from Tollcross Primary School in Edinburgh – Niamh Gallagher-Brown, Betsy Trivett, Nylah McClymont – who do a lovely job.
Bethany Tennick creates a gentle soundscape which compliments the pace and action of this light-hearted show.
Snowy ends with a lovely festive spirit and real snow for added atmosphere. It definitely lends itself to the pre-school age group – the “below seven years” recommendation reflects the top edge of its suitability. However, if the panto is too scary and your child enjoys a Cbeebies style storybook tale then they will definitely enjoy this cute puppy’s adventure.
Running time 35 minutes (no interval)
Studio Theatre, 22 Potterrow, EH8 9BL.
Wednesday 17 – Wednesday 31 December 2025
Wed 17 – Sat 20: 10.30am & 1pm; Sun 21 – Wed 31 (not 22, 25, 26): 11am & 1.30pm.
Tickets and details: Book here.
Peter Collins. Pic: Andrew Perry.
ENDS
