Review: Snow White & the 7 Martians

Review: Snow White & The 7 Martians | Miners Alley Performing Arts Center | Golden, CO | Curtain Up! | Eric Fitzgerald | September 2, 2025

🚀 Snow White & the 7 Martians lands at Miners Alley Performing Arts Center in Golden, CO, launching the classic fairytale into orbit with a zany, heartwarming twist that’s tailor-made for young audiences. Written and directed by local favorite Kate Poling, this intergalactic retelling trades poisoned apples for planetary peril, inviting children not just to watch, but to join the adventure. With Martian mischief, cosmic charm, and moments of genuine connection, the production proves that beauty—and bravery—shine brightest when shared across galaxies.

Banished to a distant planet by a queen whose vanity knows no bounds, Snow White (played with radiant charm by Shyan Rivera) finds herself caught in a cosmic clash of good versus evil. Colleen Lee’s Evil Queen is deliciously diabolical—her icy glare could freeze a nebula, and her obsession with being “the fairest in the galaxy” drives the plot with menacing flair. At her side is Galaxia, a sleek, calculating android portrayed by Lucinda Lazo, whose loyalty is coded deep and whose presence adds a futuristic chill to the Queen’s schemes.

On the banished planet, Snow White encounters Cosmo (Damon Guerrasio) and Nova (Paola Miranda), two quirky, kind-hearted locals who help her navigate exile and uncover her own strength. Their warmth and whimsy offer a counterbalance to the Queen’s cold ambition, grounding the story in friendship and resilience. As Snow White begins to rediscover her strength and sense of belonging, the planet itself becomes a stage for transformation—both personal and planetary.

In a delightful twist that elevated both the production values and the communal spirit of Snow White & the 7 Martians, children from the audience were invited onstage—not once, not twice, but three times—at one point stepping into the roles of the seven Martians. These spontaneous casting moments turned the performance into a shared adventure, as wide-eyed little ones donned Martian headbands and joined the action with infectious enthusiasm. Their stage debuts, cheered on by countless proud parents and grandparents, added a layer of joy and unpredictability that made the show feel truly alive.

Kate Poling’s knockout script and imaginative direction propel Snow White & the 7 Martians with wit, warmth, and a fearless sense of play. Her writing balances clever sci-fi twists with the emotional clarity of a classic fairy tale, crafting dialogue that sparkles with humor while remaining accessible to young audiences. As a director, Poling orchestrates chaos and charm with precision—guiding professional actors and first-time child performers alike into a cohesive, joy-filled ensemble. Every beat feels intentional, from the Queen’s icy monologues to the spontaneous giggles of Martian recruits, proving Poling’s gift for turning imaginative storytelling into an inclusive theatrical experience.

John Hauser’s sound design adds fun and familiarity, primarily through theme songs from Lost in Space, Star Wars, Star Trek, and The Jetsons. These recognizable cues quickly set the tone and connect the audience to the sci-fi setting. For parents and grandparents, the music sparks nostalgia, recalling Saturday morning cartoons and classic space adventures, while younger viewers ride the wave of energy and exploration. Hauser’s choices are sharp and effective, layering the show with sonic surprises like spaceship swooshes and Martian mischief, amplifying every comedic beat without ever stealing focus.

The imaginative world of Snow White & the 7 Martians unfolds entirely within the existing set of Assassins, now playing weekend evenings at Miners Alley Performing Arts Center, a testament to the resourcefulness and vision of the creative team. Jonathan Scott-McKean’s set design cleverly evokes a whimsical sci-fi landscape, demonstrating that strong design can be applied across genres. Xander Claypool’s lighting adds dimension and playfulness, shifting mood and focus with precision. Together, their work transforms a complex theatrical backdrop into a vibrant playground for family-friendly storytelling.

Crystal McKenzie’s costume design is a kaleidoscopic triumph, bursting with interstellar imagination and playful precision. Each ensemble feels lovingly conjured from the cosmos. Still, it’s Galaxia’s look that truly dazzles—shimmering like a nebula in motion, her costume ripples with iridescent hues and celestial accents that seem to catch light from every angle. It’s not just a visual feast; it’s a character cue, signaling her otherworldly charisma before she even speaks.

Anchoring it all is stage manager Xander Claypool and running crew member John Wittbordt, whose steady presence keeps the gears turning and the magic seamless. Together, they form a constellation that elevates Poling’s vision into a full-blown theatrical galaxy.

Snow White & the 7 Martians is more than a playful romp through outer space—it’s a testament to the creative spirit thriving at Miners Alley Performing Arts Center. With its inventive staging, inclusive casting, and collaborative artistry, the production reflects its commitment to cultivating imagination and accessibility in the arts. By engaging young performers and delighting multi-generational audiences, Miners Alley isn’t just producing theatre; they’re nurturing future patrons, artists, and storytellers. In a community setting, this kind of investment sets the stage for a lasting legacy, where theatre is not only seen but deeply felt.