Tom O’Dwyer and his young family enjoy a warm, witty and musically rich Christmas production
The Egg has long been one of Bath’s most special spaces for children’s theatre, and Snow Mice is a perfect example of why.
Having previously seen Snow Mouse in one of The Wgg’s smaller studio spaces with my three-year-old, I was curious to see how this new stage production would compare. I’m happy to say it’s every bit as magical, just in a more theatrical and beautifully crafted way.
One of the real joys of this version is the inventive use of a very simple set. There’s nothing flashy or overblown, but the design is full of imagination.
A glowing circular window drops from above for the characters to clamber through. A house appears on stage and then, with a simple turn, its back becomes the bunk beds where the children sleep. Later, a vast grey cloth is drawn forward to become a mountain, down which tiny cut-out versions of the characters whizz and tumble like a living storybook. It’s simple, clever and utterly charming – proof that strong ideas beat big budgets every time.
The live music is another standout. One performer moves seamlessly between guitar, cello and more, building a warm, immersive soundscape that makes the snowy world feel completely real. At one point, even one of the actors joins in on double bass (a shame not mouse in hand), adding to the sense that everything on stage is part of one playful, musical whole.
Children are constantly pulled into the action. White sheets ripple over the audience like falling snow. A giant snowball bounces through the crowd. Performers wander through the stalls and up into the balcony, making the whole experience feel shared rather than watched from a distance. My three-year-old was utterly transfixed throughout.
While the Snow Mice themselves take a slightly quieter role this time, the heart of the story is really about the three siblings and their adventure together. Along the way, there are gentle, accessible messages about trusting one another, working as a team and learning to apologise – the kind of emotional learning that quietly lands without ever feeling preachy.
There are also plenty of knowing smiles and dry touches for parents, so adults are just as entertained as the children.
Warm, witty, musically rich and gently magical, Snow Mice is a genuine feel-good family treat in the run-up to Christmas. Thoughtfully made, full of humour and completely enchanting – we all left with big smiles.
The Snow Mice! runs at the Egg Theatre until 11 January 2026. For more information and to book tickets go to www.theatreroyal.org.uk/events/snow-mice/
