A Christmas Carol, Bolton Little Theatre. Runs until Saturday

DICKENS' classic tale is told and re-told every year, but still loses non of its charm.

Despite its popularity on stage, it is a difficult show to produce -- scene changes and characters are plentiful, and evoking images of each of the spirits which visit Scrooge can be troublesome.

But Bolton Little Theatre's production skates through without any hitches.

The opening scene is among the most memorable. Young members of the Lostock Dance Centre provide a wonderful display in a Christmas card setting.

Robin Thompson plays Scrooge to perfection, leading a strong cast which includes Tim Henshaw as the downtrodden Bob Cratchit, Andrew Close as Marley's Ghost, Christine Pierce Jones as the Ghost of Christmas Past, and Stewart Smith doubling up as the Ghost of Christmas Present and Mr Fezziwig.

Claire Snowball may not speak as the Ghost of Christmas Future, but the costume and special effects make her appearance among the most memorable.

Others who shine include Carole Butler in a variety of roles, and Rachel Hadjigeorgio.

But overall, in the true spirit of Christmas, it is the youngsters who steal the show -- from the talented dancers, through to the street urchins, and William Livesey as Tiny Tim. This is bright and vivid show which should entertain young and old. Beverly Greenberg