August 3rd, 2008
We booked up on Friday to go along and see The Sleeping Beauty on ICE by the Imperial Ice Stars at Castle Howard on Saturday evening. Playing in the tented palace which covers over 1.5 acres, they built a temporary theatre with its own ice rink for this show. We arrived at 6.45 and parked up just outside the tents. Having picked up our tickets at the box office we headed to the bar to pick up a couple of pre-show drinks. Situated in the grounds of Castle Howard we took the opportunity to take a few photographs along the way. The show started at 7.30 and it was a shame to note they had a few unsold seats because the next two hours were very entertaining indeed. With the mix of Tchaikovsky’s music, the story of sleeping beauty and some very good ice skating, it was thoroughly enjoyable. A few mistakes were made along the way, but the manner in which they quickly recovered and got back up on their feet showed how professional they were. The only slight thing that disappointed was the sound system in use. With high quality music systems the norm these days, we think they should have invested a little more in their own sound system to do Tchaikovsky’s music justice. The narration as a result was a little hard to hear.
Anyway despite that, if you get a chance, go see this show. It isn’t really for children and do take a light jumper as it can get chilly, but you will have a good night.
Rating. 3 Stars.
Posted in Arts and Entertainment