Peter Pan On Ice (Tour – Manchester)

The exceptionally talented Russian Ice Stars have proved that they are as hot as ever in their latest production of Peter Pan.

Slick and sensational, the company are at the very top of their game – providing show-stopping tricks, beautiful choreography and jaw-dropping lifts as they re-tell J.M. Barrie’s story about a boy who never wants to grow up.

So why then only three stars? While the skating and characterisation is faultless throughout, it is marred by a pantomime-style guest appearance by the local Capital FM presenter Rachel Burke-Davies.

Playing Buccaneer Bobbie from the Jolly Roger Radio, the character has been clumsily integrated into the piece to add some dialogue into the visual spectacle.

It is like putting a party entertainer into the middle of an English National Ballet piece – it cheapens what is actually a performance of the very highest standard, and it would not and should not ever happen.

The cast are strong enough to tell the story through their flawless skills and perfected gestures alone, and while it is understandable that they were trying to cater to their younger audience, it was entirely unnecessary. The costumes, the magic of the set and some amazing aerial work are enough to entertain any child, and on opening night at Manchester Palace Theatre the skating had youngsters on the very edge of their seats.

The leading characters were simply phenomenal – the rapport between Wendy (Anastasiya Khlynina) and her brothers John (Denis Balandin) and Michael (Anton Kylnin) being particularly captivating. The Indians also provided some of the stand out-moments of the show, leaving audiences speechless as they juggled fire and fearlessly performed the terrifying "headbanger".

While this was not quite the fairytale of a show I had been hoping for, it is without doubt that the Russian Ice Stars have the potential to dazzle in the next chapter of their journey.

Peter Pan On Ice continues at the Palace Theatre until 30 March.

– Rebecca Cohen