Seeing such a special show in such an iconic theatre provides a once in a lifetime experience for all the family. There are not many shows in the West End at the moment that guarantee to transfix grandparents, parents and children alike but The Nutcracker On Ice was certainly one of them!

Following a successful(ish) stint on ITV’s Dancing On Ice earlier this year, actor turned presenter turned ice skater Keith Chegwin headlines the show alongside his Dancing On Ice professional partner Olga Sharutenko. Surprisingly the casting works as Chegwin’s role isn’t huge but allows him to have several moments in the spotlight as he quite literally flies on and off stage.

The cast are phenomenal. They take to the stage with grace and handled one minor slip and a couple of costume malfunctions with utter professionalism – the show must go on. Not only do the company skate and dance effortlessly, but they demonstrate terrific acrobatic skills during a stunning segment which sees cast members suspended in the air. One or two magic tricks are also incorporated into the show, much to the amazement of the audience.

While it’s still only October, The Nutcracker On Ice provides some early Christmas magic. The show works beautifully on ice and at times I found myself lost in Tchaikovsky’s most famous score which fills the Palladium with joy.

The audience were brought to their feet and were left cheering for more, the finale was out of this world and I didn’t know where to look as the talent of the entire cast is like nothing I have ever seen before. Even if this isn’t the type of show you would usually go and see I would recommend that everyone sees a show such as The Nutcracker On Ice at the London Palladium at least once in their lifetime. With both acts running for just under an hour the evening flies by.

Reviewed by Andrew Tomlins

Reviewed on Friday 25th October 2013

The Nutcracker On Ice runs at the London Palladium until Sunday 3rd November 2013

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