IT'S a kind of magic! This is a classic fairytale brought to life mixing the delights of panto and theatre in an effortless way.

The audience enters to find a stage aglow with shimmering lights and snow as designer Dominie Hooper creates a magical winter wonderland with stunning scenery.

A dramatic entrance by the Snow Queen thrills the younger children in the audience -- with many crouching in fear in their seats as the menacing queen, played brilliantly by Sally Mortemore, makes a truly wicked start to the show.

Comedy comes as welcome relief in the form of Jack Frost, played by Adam Sunderland.

He has boundless energy, leaping across the stage with his frosty "nippers".

If you're expecting traditional pantomime, then forget it. This is a more refined look at the festive frolics.

There are no dames, no throwing sweets out into the audience, no huge cast list.

But the actors do attempt to get the audience involved in the action, much to the surprise of some of the regular Octagon theatre-goers, who could be seen slipping down their seats.

My own children adored it. There was not one trip to the bathroom (which is exceptional for an hour-long Act One followed by another hour after the interval).

My six-year-old daughter loved rag doll, played by choreographer TC Howard. And my seven-year-old son raved about Jack Frost.

Both characters were enchanting and a winner with the kids.

This Hans Christian Anderson tale has been told in many different ways. Bolton man Neil Duffield, who penned other plays such as The Jungle Book, put a modern spin on this classic yarn, but you'll be pleased to know that good still overcomes evil.

A fantastic musical score, by Conrad Nelson, completes the spell-binding production.

The Snow Queen runs until January 12.