A cold winter’s tale

This B Street Theatre Family Series show was adapted from a fairy tale by David Pierini, with original music (including a lovely glittering overture) by Noah Agruss, and six Equity actors in the cast. Tall, commanding Maggie Hollinbeck handles the title role with an icy smile. Stephanie Altholz is marvelous as an intellectual princess who decides to dumb down her manner with eligible men—just when a brainy nobleman who might be a perfect match (John Lamb) comes along. Amy Kelly bobs and caws as a talking raven. Costumer Nancy Pipkin’s work further advances the cause. Director Jerry Montoya lets the scary parts become a tad intense: a 3-year-old sitting next to this critic got worried, but held onto Mama’s hand and made it through to the end.

The Snow Queen, 1 and 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, with additional weekday shows on December 23, and December 27-30; $13-$22. The B Street Theatre, 2727 B Street; (916) 443-5300; www.bstreettheatre.org. Through December 31.