Having already reviewed Ellen Kent's production of 'The Nutcracker' in January last year, I was keen to see how the production had developed. How would this performance live up to the stunning entertainment of January 2003?

Nadezhda Schepachiova, who made her debut at the National Opera and Ballet Theatre in 1997, plays the part of Marie, usually known as Clara. Schepachiova, known for her lightness, is still a pleasure to watch although, being a little more critical on viewing this for the second time, I would have liked her to develop her relationship with the audience further. That said, she shows the nimblest of pointe work. The magician Drosselmeyer, performed by Ghenadii Badika, doesn't quite live up to Sergei Ilin who plays the part on other occasions. However, his role as magician is effective and the ease with which he sweeps onto the stage with Didina Grosu, the Nutcracker Doll, tucked under his arm as an inaminate figure, is effortless. Her mask plants a permanant fairground clown's smile and her movement is striking and well executed - she is a remarkable Nutcracker Doll.

True to the story the guests depart and the clever use of flys and tabs takes us into a picture book winter wonderland. The corps de ballet dance as snowflakes in front of snow and twinkling lights. The curtain on the first half left a delighted audience eager for more.

A multi-layered scene where Christmas motifs compete with a flying sailing ship and lively toys opens the second half to recapture our attention. The Mouse King, played by Alexei Terentiev, is the traditional pantomime 'baddie'. His presence provides a conflict which must be resolved.

The Nutcracker Prince, Igor Schepachiov, fights and scatters the menacing mice. In pairs, the national costumed dolls provide an international flavour through the clever choreography. Original movement features Indian doll Andrea Sharaev balancing Elena Ilina on his thigh whilst rotating a full circle. 

'The Nutcracker' will be the first introduction to professional ballet for many children and adults, and so it is hoped they will see a performance which delights and entrances them. Ellen Kent's Chisinau National Ballet lives up to this responsibility and provides a lovely evening. Tchaikovsky's delightful and uplifting score is played with great musicality and is superbly conducted by Svetlana Popoba. Highly recommended - a wonderful evening's entertainment.

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