Slava's Snowshow

What it lacks in a distinct storyline, Slava’s Snowshow makes up for with surreal imagery, scintillating performances, and well-designed props and special effects. At its heart, this is a children’s show. Attempting to discern the narrative is a pointless endeavour for much of the show’s runtime. It is best to sit back, relax, and dive deep into the dreamlike world portrayed on stage.

Famous Russian clown and performance artist ‘Slava’ Polunin carefully handcrafted this masterful piece after decades of experience. He was inspired by Charlie Chaplin and the immensely popular Leonid Engibarov. In many ways, Slava’s Snowshow is Polunin’s magnum opus; a culmination of his long and successful career as a clown. It won a Drama Desk Award in 2005 for ‘Unique Theatrical Experience’, the 1998 Olivier Award, and a Tony Award Nomination. Indeed, there are few shows that capture the spirit of contemporary circus as effortlessly as Slava’s Snowshow. It makes substantial use of both modern and classical compositions to accentuate the innocent humour that has made the show such a beloved children’s classic. Slava’s Snowshow returns to America this winter for a limited 8-week run.

The Show

Much of the show’s charm can be attributed to its freedom from a defined plot. It features several clowns with a single ‘Yellow’ clown. Many of its brilliant ‘ta-dah’ moments are accompanied by a blizzard of snow-like confetti. The collection of vignettes are presented in a loose order, amplifying the comedy at each stage. From clowns in makeshift boats to filling the auditorium with bouncy balls, Slava’s Slideshow is a savoury blend of beautiful music, mime sequences, and clown comedy at its very best!

Good For

Family Audiences | Children | Fans of Polunin

Reviews

“The innocent, gentle humour and lack of a clear storyline were frustrating for some, but for others the charming homespun sets and simple, well-executed visual jokes tapped into a childlike wonder that few modern forms of entertainment manage to achieve.”

• Independent