The Snow Queen at Theatre by the Lake, Keswick

If you are looking for a seasonal and spectacular show to see this winter look no further than The Snow Queen at Keswick's Theatre by the Lake.

The tale, adapted by Charles Way from Hans Christian Andersen's fairy story, focuses on the threat posed by the evil Snow Queen, who wants to see a world of snow and ice all-year-round.

She lures young and impressionistic Cei (Huw Blainey) to her kingdom and forces him to work on repairing her ice mirror, which will allow her to succeed in her plan.

But she does not count on the courage and determination of Cei's friend Gerda (Jennifer English), who embarks on an epic journey to the distant North to try to find him when everyone else in the village thinks he has drowned beneath a frozen river.

There are eight actors in the show, who all sing, dance and play instruments to help tell the enchanting story. Special mention must go to Lauren Silver, who showed great comic timing in a variety of roles, including Princess Frederica and Daffodil.

The costumes, lighting and, especially the staging, all play a major role in evoking a believable world, occupied by trolls, a talking reindeer, forest robbers and some perky plants.

This is a family-friendly drama but, like all the best fairy stories, it has some scary and unsettling parts, but nothing that will upset the young ones.

The acting and movement are first class. I especially liked the opening scenes, where four friends create a realistic snowball fight using little more than mime.

Although the setting evokes a chilly world, this is ultimately a heart-warming show.

The Snow Queen is directed by Mary Papadina and runs in the Main House until Saturday, January 16.

l For tickets see www.theatreby thelake.com or call the Box Office 017687 74411.

Andrew Thomas