Snow White On Ice The Regent Theatre, Hanley

WITH Dancing On Ice managing to maintain its popularity, the arrival of the Russian Ice Stars at The Regent Theatre on Wednesday proved an instant hit.

Their interpretation of the classic fairytale Snow White was magical, mesmerising and, at times, utterly breathtaking as dancers glided, raced, skipped and spun their way across the iced stage with unbelievable skill.

Those on the front few rows may have had to take an occasional deep breath as images of skaters flying into the audience were all too easy to imagine, but split-second timing and exceptional control allowed them to use every inch of the rink to their advantage.

Although the original story is aimed at children, Snow White On Ice isn't really one for youngsters.

It could be said that certain scenes lasted a little too long to maintain a child's enthusiasm and the alterations to the tale were occasionally over-complicated.

At the same time, however, the inclusion of aerial acrobatics and circus tricks proved more than an added bonus as certain skaters flew at great height through the air showing strength and agility.

A team of 20 world-class skaters comprised the cast, with Irina Tkachuk taking the title role.

Her light beauty perfectly complemented the dark evil of Svetlana Kuprina's Queen Drina, while her partnership with Vladis Mintals's Prince Charming made for some heart-warming moments.

The seven dwarfs were replaced by a gang of woodcutters who provided comedy on the ice, while the pair of geese were everything adorable creatures should be.

Snow White On Ice is a fantastic show that brings something quite unique to the theatre.

On top of the skating, the whole production is alive with colour and music as the audience is transported into a wonderland of beauty. Cavalieri Giuseppe Arena's direction and choreography lay at its heart, while Silvio Amato's score would suit any fan of Tchaikovsky.

Liz Rowley

Snow White On Ice runs until Sunday. To book tickets, call 08448 717649.