Inventive, madcap and deliriously quirky, Kneehigh Theatre has delighted audiences for nearly 30 years. Like all their fans, my expectations for their new show were exceedingly high but yet again Kneehigh did not disappoint.

Their take on the classic fairytale of Hansel and Gretel boasts a stunningly eccentric set, delightful puppetry and ingenious props. Gretel actually creates a full-scale Heath Robinson mouse trap, complete with rolling cannonballs, seesaws and rope burnt through with fire. Great! This is a company that believes in taking chances and they certainly pay off.

A cast of four are superbly supported by a pair multi-talented musicians performing specially composed atmospheric music and haunting melodies.

In the midst of humour and cleverness, there were touching moments of gentle pathos – a Kneehigh trademark.

If you already know Kneehigh, you will have booked your tickets. If this is your first chance of seeing them – take it!

Runs until Saturday. Box Office:01722 320 333.

John Billington