Review: THE GREATEST SNOWMAN, Pedley Street Station

After The Murder Express and Journey To The Underworld, Funicular invite their audience to Pedley Street Station to embark on a silly Christmas journey whilst savouring a sublime feast. When the mysterious Ed Snow hops on a train directed to the Birmingham Christmas market, greater forces take over to carry out their secret mission.

With a menu created specifically by Chef Louisa Ellis, finalist of BBC Masterchef: The Professionals, there seems to be a gap between the essence of the entertainment and the nature of the food. The four-course meal is worthy of a top-listed fine-dining restaurant, with the centrepiece being a luscious main consisting of 3 bird roast with chicken skin, cavolo nero, parsnip puree, potato rosti and citrus sauce.

The plot that accompanies the dinner - presented in the company's customary train carriage with screens in place of windows - is a bit messy but succeeds in doing what it says on the tin: it entertains. The show is lead by Doris (Ingrid Miller), a very matter-of-fact and straight-to-the-point Northerner who serves as hilarious host and counterbalances the ensuing nonsense.

The main highlights are certainly Buttercup and Bubbles (Phil Amato and Charlie Thorpe), the cheery and extremely camp Elves who manage to keep the spirits up by interacting with the guests and wrecking havoc in the room.

The pantomime clashes slightly with the sophisticated cuisine and vibe of the setting. The cartoonish characters and the (quite anti-climatic) storyline would definitely work for a family outing but as the dishes look as they're being catered for adults without a child's option, it feels somewhat odd.

One thing is certain, though, Ellis' creations are a joy for the palate and her refined offerings deserve the ticket price and cheap Game of Thrones jokes alone.

The Greatest Snowman runs at Pedley Street Station until 30 November.

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