CAROLINE CULOT Russian Ice Stars at Norwich Theatre Royal

CAROLINE CULOT

A dazzling fairytale and dramatic spectacle came to Norwich last night with the Russian Ice Stars' performance of Sleeping Beauty set to Tchaikovsky's riveting score.

The stage, covered with 14 tons of ice since Monday for last night's opening, was a spectacle in itself, but the production added extra sparkle with 120 different glorious costumes - worth going to the show for alone - and some simple sets.

But of course all eyes were on the dancers and, for a first night, there were few wobbles.

There was a good level of technical difficulty although perhaps some of the skaters held back on attempting those triple jumps - which may be seen later in the week.

And of course they all make it look so incredibly easy with the lovely fresh-faced Katya Murugova bringing verve and vitality to the part of Princess Aurora.

Last night her Prince Desire was played by understudy Valdis Mintals, who truly excelled as did Olympic gold medallist Ioulia Barsoukova as the energetic, extremely supple white cat.

But when it comes to good and evil, they always say the best part is the baddie and Maria Borovikova made a chilling villain Carabosse complete with her Shadow Denis Samokhine.

But what really made last night a thrilling show was how everything came together; the costumes, lighting, set and dancing to create at times real drama.

And for little girls this production is a real dream, pure ice magic.

t The show continues nightly until Saturday March 13, with 2.30pm matinees on Wednesday and Saturday. Box office: 01603 630000.