Last updated 05:17, Friday, 28 November 2008

The Nutcracker, The Sands Centre, CarlisleCarlisle’s cultured citizens travelled through a bitter November evening for an evening of ballet, and were suitably rewarded.

The Nutcracker, regarded as one of Tchaikovsky’s greatest works, is touring the country with the Moscow Ballet, who chose Nadezda Ivanova and Andrey Shalin to play Clara and the Prince for the Cumbrian audience.

The delicate acrobatics of Ivanova were the perfect foil for the strong, bold moves of Shalin, and together the duo produced some capturing sequences.

The assisting cast executed their choreography without slip or fall, with a scene featuring dances inspired by different cultures rivalling the best of the leading stars. Alexander Sedov brought a particularly energetic portrayal of Councillor Drosselmayer, eagerly projecting personality.

Those scenes were simple backdrops. From the snowy drifts to the castle’s inner rooms, each added a light touch of character and paid welcome homage to the Russian roots of the group.

Director Elik Milikov has created a show that’s perfect for the Christmas season. Its two acts, detailing the fantastic tale of a nutcracker which transforms into a prince, are layered with magic and adventure. All ages should catch this performance, which proves that Tchaikovsky’s work is as timelessly enjoyable as the Christmas spirit itself.

ADAM MONTGOMERY