IT IS Christmas Eve in 19th century St Petersburg in the sumptuous family home of Dr Pavlov.

His young daughter, Maria, has so much love to share that she releases her beloved Nutcracker doll (an enchanted present from her enigmatic godfather) from an evil spell, turning him into her handsome Prince.

Following an attack by the ruthless Mouse King and his followers, he takes her to his Kingdom of Sweets where his subjects celebrate his homecoming in their own inimitable style.

This was superb storytelling, with wonderful characterisations, dynamic facial expressions, and physicality from all ages (human or otherwise!).

Alongside the mesmerising portrayal of Maria by Anastasia Ignatyeva and regal performance by Artur Minchuk as her heroic Prince, there were lovely cameo roles enhanced by exquisite choreography that conveyed so much grace and elegance, quirkiness and drama with high levels of comedy, particularly from Grandmother, King Mouse and his Queen.

The speed over the ice on a compact stage, with the height of lifts and throws, was enthralling, while the aerial sequence by Fiona Kirk and Volodymyr Khodakivskyy was spectacular and breathtaking.

Alena Zmeu had terrific poise, flexibility, acrobatic excellence and fabulous personality as the Nutcracker Doll – “a wooden performance” in this case is a huge compliment!

It was initially somewhat surreal to see Keith Chegwin amongst the international names, but (paired here once again with his Dancing On Ice partner, Olga Sharutenko) he proved a more than competent skater, drawing on his 46 years in showbusiness to create an engaging, vibrant character.

It was initially disappointing to hear Tchaikovsky’s wonderful score prerecorded, but the need for the production to be at an accurate and strictlyobserved tempo was essential for the safety of the performers and was soon forgiven and forgotten in the magical atmosphere and the musicality of the orchestra.

With opulent scenery, stunning costumes and wonderful lighting and effects, The Imperial Ice Stars’ production of The Nutcracker On Ice combined to sweep the audience up into its fairy-tale world, creating a magical, enchanting, engaging evening of entertainment to warm the heart and soul of all ages. Recommended.