Schlepping the Dwarfs along in Snow White
Snow White and the 7 Dwarfs is coming to Towngate Theatre, with performances running February 3-5 and 10-11. A take on the Brothers Grimm story, this captivating and imaginative version of the classic fairy tale has spectacular sets, costumes and special effects. There is plenty of song, dance and comedy, too.
And wrangling this large cast, along with seven adorable, yet energetic, little dwarfs (played by some talented local children) can be quite the handful. It’s a lot for director Tim Thompson to manage, and that is where Bob Gaudio comes into play. As assistant director on the production, Bob helps Tim keep things organized, specifically with the dwarfs.
“Tim directs; I schlep,” Bob said.
The production has many elements, and Bob helps by coordinating rehearsal schedules, running lines, perfecting blocking issues, discussing character traits, and rehearsing the musical numbers.
“I also am working with Walt Warren to prepare the cast for their musical numbers and to tape some of the music used as overlay in the play,” Bob said.
Did someone say “cookies?”
But Bob’s greatest gift to this production is not the time he gives out of his busy life. Nor is it all the assistance he gives to the director and cast. It’s his baking skills.
“I bake cookies and brownies for our weekend rehearsals,” Bob said. “That may very well be my most valuable attribute for the play—cookies!”
Bob said that his love of theatre is what draws him to work on these productions.
“I try to work with Tim once a year, specifically in the Children’s Theatre productions, to keep my feet wet,” Bob said.
“I have always loved acting and directing but don’t have the kind of time necessary to undertake complete direction of a play on my own or to be in every play I’d like to participate in. This particular production—Snow White and the 7 Dwarfs—has a stellar, hard-working cast and has been a delight.”
Bob said one additional perk is more personal.
“I get to work with my son, David, again as an added bonus,” Bob said. “He plays the prince trapped inside the Dark Queen’s mirror.”
Get tickets
Evening performances of Snow White and the 7 Dwarfs take place at 7 p.m. February 3 & 10. Matinee performances take place at 3 p.m. February 4, 5 & 11.
Adults: $12.50/$11 OI members. Children 10 & under: $10/8.50 OI members.
Each child gets a keepsake photograph. After the show, kids can go onstage, meet the actors and get autographs from their favorite characters.
And call now to reserve seats for your little ones at the special event, Tea with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, which will follow the performance on Saturday, February 4th.
Due to the popularity of our children’s shows, we recommend making advanced reservations. Purchase tickets online, or you can call 304-242-7700.
Enjoy theater & more at Towngate …
Towngate is the premiere venue for community theater in Wheeling. Talented local actors perform in a variety of though-provoking, heartwarming, comedic and historically significant works from renowned playwrights and talented newcomers.
Area residents can also attend poetry and spoken word performances, children’s theater, ballet, improvisational comedy, cinema and live music at Towngate. Children, teens and adults enjoy year-round classes in theater and performing arts.