MATTHEW BOURNE claims that the main reason that this 120- year-old ballet is so successful is because of Tchaikovsky’s incredible score. I beg to differ.

Yes, the score is fabulous and familiar, but Bourne’s scrumptious interpretation is the reason that this production has filled every seat wherever it has been performed.

Bourne’s imaginative direction and charismatic choreography, teamed with Anthony Ward’s iconic design, is the perfect blend of pure escapism.

We begin in Ward’s wonderful world of Dr Dross’ Dickensian orphanage, as Clara (Hannah Vassallo) and the children prepare for the governor’s annual Christmas visit. Dr Dross’ spoilt children Sugar and Fritz, Ashley Shaw and Daniel Collins, get the best presents and push their way through the grey-clad orphans to dance the humour into selfishness.

The first half is full of childhood games: oranges and lemons, skipping and hula hoops and, although all the presents are snatched back after the governors have left, Clara finds the Nutcracker boy and as the clock strikes 12, the orphans revolt and the fantasy begins.

The second half lights up with colour and puts a childlike spin on eye candy with the Liquorice Allsorts, the fabulous Marshmallow Girls, the Gobstoppers, and a Sweetieland Wedding.

This production is a delicious unmissable theatrical feast, full of wit, pathos, fantasy and sizzling choreography.

• Until tomorrow. Box office 08448-112121 and online theatreroyal.co.uk