AFTER a wet and dreary start to 2014, what better way to sprinkle a little fairy dust on January than the world-renowned Russian Ice Stars' production of Peter Pan on Ice at the Bournemouth Pavilion?

As regulars to the theatre we were intrigued to see how the stage would fare as an ice rink, surely it would not be big enough?

But from curtain-up we were enchanted as the 23-strong cast of professional Russian skaters - some former Olympians - transported us to the Darling childrens' bedroom, the deck of Captain Hook's ship, the Jolly Roger, and of course Neverland, home of the boy who never grew up, Peter Pan.

This production is simply a thing of beauty; from the costumes, to the sets, to the performers themselves and their amazing grace, as they dance across the ice performing 'ahhhh-inducing' jumps and lifts without a single hitch.

The audience is told the story through the eyes of JM Barrie - in this case a skater with such talent it is difficult to drag your eyes away from him.

While Tinkerbell's sparkling wings, effervescent style of skating and beauty also made her absolutely mesmerising to everyone in the theatre.

The aerial acrobatics thrilled the children in the audience - who also seemed to adore the breakdancing crocodile.

Our only reservation about the production was the use of a narrator in the guise of a pirate radio reporter.

Obviously brought in to add explanation to the unfolding story, he wasn't really needed as far as we were concerned and at times took the classical tale into the realms of pantomime. If any narrator was needed at all, we would have preferred a simple voiceover.

Peter Pan on Ice is at the Bournemouth Pavilion from January 9-12 for seven performances.

Tickets and full details from BH Live Tickets on 0844 576 3000, book online at bournemouthpavilion.co.uk or visit the BIC or Pavilion Ticket Office in person. Groups of 10 or more should call 01202 451865.