The Ellen Kent production of 'The Nutcracker' follows hot on the heels of the English National Ballet's world premiere at the Hippodrome last October, so one can't help but make a direct comparison.

 In this version, the part of Clara is known as Marie and is performed by Nadezhda Schepachiova, who made her debut at the National Opera and Ballet Theatre in 1997. She is known for her lightness and acting and this was certainly evident in this performance. She opened the production crossing the stage with the nimblest of pointe work.

 An air of anticipation was created as one after another solo ballerina children followed her. Their procession led the magician Drosselmeyer, Sergei Ilin, whose wide ranging experience in Europe and America enabled him to dance this challenging part with flair and ease. Ilin's facial expression was as delightful as his flawless movement. As he swept onto the stage with what appeared to be an inanimate figure, the nutcracker doll tucked under his arm, the audience gasped as he upturned Didina Grosu and she leapt into her role. During her entrance her permanent plie was as fixed as the half smile on her half mask. The level of dedication of movement in this role resulted in absolute perfection.

 True to the story the guests departed and the cleverest use of flys and tabs take 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 opened the second half to recapture our attention. Igor Gherchiu is a powerful and threatening mouse king and an excellent model for his mice to aspire to. Their presence offers a worrying undercurrent and sense of conflict to be overcome.

 The Prince Nutcracker, Egor Schepachiov fights and scatters the menacing mice. Two by two the national costumed dolls provided a spectacle of wonder. Their perfectly synchronised pair work showed total commitment to the most minute detale. Costumes were varied, contrasting and splendid.

 Whilst all were fantastic, a new step for me to see was when the male Indian dancer, in a deep plie supported the female on his thigh while turning through 360 degrees. Astounding control was also shown when the Nutcracker Prince danced his final dance with Marie. Each followed with magnificent solos, Marie to to the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy music culminating in thirty pose turns.

 The performance, which unlike ENB's production, had a satisfying and fulfilling ending, allowed, I believe, the audience to gain and recapture priveleged insights into the extent of a child's imagination.

 Quality of music and dance made this a superb production. A thoroughly delightful and memorable performance - highly recommended.