BEST to forget the delightful 1960s film starring Hayley Mills as this Andrew Lloyd Webber/Jim Steinman musical, moves the action from the English North to the American South.

The story remains the same: three children mistake a killer on the run hiding in their barn for Jesus. He's not wearing a dress, as one of them points out, but the wounds on his hands and feet along with his general Christ-like look convince them it's Him.

The charm and naivety of the original non-singing film is supplemented by elements of racism, sexual awakening and family grief , along with a chorus of children and a largely undistinguished score, although I bet you'll be singing the one big hit, No Matter What, long after the curtain has come down.

Bill Kenwright's production moves swiftly enough, the staging is dramatic and Rosie Jenkins' Swallow proves a sympathetic guide as the girl, still grieving for her mother, who forms the closest attachment to Christ-like figure.

Glenn Carter returns on the current leg of the tour to the role that he played in the London West End production and brings a brooding intensity and suppressed violence to The Man.

* Until Saturday. Tickets 0870 606 3595

Published: 13/05/2004