THIS show by Wild Rose Theatre features the Russian Ice Stars, described as "the finest team of professional skaters in the world". Comprising former national and international competitors - notably Ioulia Barsoukova, a gold medallist in the Sydney 2000 Olympics - it certainly has the right credentials.

The story is introduced, a bit bizarrely, by a narrator miming to a recording. I felt for Mikhail Stifounine in this role - especially as English is presumably not his first language - but he was helpful in explaining the action.

From the outset, there's plenty of colour and activity, with skaters whizzing round the stage at breakneck speed. Sitting in the second row, a matter of feet from the flashing blades, this was a bit disconcerting at times, and the poor folk in the front row were regularly sprayed with ice. However, at least there was a sense of intimacy.

The story ran along fairly traditional lines, with Cinderella getting an invitation to the ball only to be forced to flee at midnight, prompting a search by the lovesick prince. Olga Pershankova was sweetly engaging as Cinderella - and a suitably strong skater. The prince and the rest of the cast showed similar skill on their blades. But for me, the highlights were the acrobatics, as performed by court jesters Alexander Belokupitov and Ekaterina Belokopitova, along with Ioulia Barsoukova's gymnastics. A fast-paced and fun spectacle that children especially would enjoy.

* Runs until Saturday. Box office 0191-332 4041.

Published: 24/03/2005