This December, The Snow Queen: A Woodland Adventure will transform The Albany in Deptford into a snowy woodland wonderland, inviting families to join a heartwarming festive journey filled with music, puppetry, and interactive fun.
Running from 2 to 24 December 2025, this enchanting adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic tale is written and directed by Nancy Hirst, with original music by Eamonn O’Dwyer and design by Laura McEwen.
At the heart of the story is Gerda, a fearless young mouse who sets off on a daring quest to rescue her best friend Kai from the icy grip of the mysterious Snow Queen. Along the way, she meets a mischievous squirrel, a clever crow, and the babbling Brook, all brought to life through lively performances and engaging puppetry.
Nancy Hirst, Artistic Director of Icon Theatre, said:
“After a decade of creating festive shows for early years audiences at The Brook Theatre in Chatham, I’m thrilled to be developing a new production at the Albany and taking it on the road. The Snow Queen: A Woodland Adventure marks an exciting new chapter for Icon as we bring our work to new communities and audiences. My ambition was to create an interactive experience that truly places children and their grown-ups at the heart of the story. Rarely do girls lead such adventures, and in Gerda I wanted to create a fearless, curious and determined protagonist, ensuring young audiences see strength and potential reflected on stage. I hope this production not only delights and entertains but also fills families with festive joy and inspires children to believe in their own bravery, creativity and kindness long after the performance ends.”
The cast includes Eve Pereira as Gerda the Mouse, Freya Stephenson as the Snow Queen, Mum and Thieving Squirrel, and Henry Regan as Kai and Crow.
The production is suitable for ages 3 and up, with a running time of 50 minutes and no interval. A Relaxed and BSL-interpreted performance will take place on Saturday 13 December at 11am.
The Snow Queen: A Woodland Adventure is co-produced by Icon Theatre and The Albany, continuing Icon’s tradition of creating acclaimed festive shows for young audiences.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
