Lewis Carroll’s, The Hunting of the Snark, is an epic tale of eight parts. It is whimsical and fantastic but it is also a beautifully constructed story with a clear narrative and wonderful characters. Carroll’s work is clever and joyous and if you have not yet read the poem, take the time to do so.
Turning the poem into a stage production should be very hard to get wrong, however, it seems, not impossible. Although The Hunting of the Snark at the Sydney Opera House has borrowed some inspiration from the original story, it is hard to compare the two. Character arcs are altered, new story lines are inserted and important plot points are ignored while seemingly small details are magnified.
There are gems scattered through this production that hold it together: the knitting Beaver who is puppeteered by most of the cast at some point is great fun. The Baker, despite falling short of Carroll’s master chef, takes on her role with such gusto you can’t help but enjoy her performance. And the Bandersnatch has by far the best costume of the show.
Had the production gone by a different name praises for the casts’ enthusiasm would be sung. Each member gave it their all and on stage personalities were definitely large. The slap stick humour and silliness worked well with the younger audiences who found joy in the absurdity.
Despite its pitfalls this production is fun and carries moments of merriment.
Sydney Opera House, RG Media and Alice House Theatre present
The Hunting of the Snark
based on the poem by Lewis Carroll
Venue: Sydney Opera House NSW
Dates: 17 – 22 July 2018
Tickets: $27 + $8.50 Booking fee
Bookings: www.sydneyoperahouse.com
