IF CROSS-DRESSING Australian soap stars aren't really your cup of tea, festive entertainment of a slightly more classical nature is on offer in Winchester.

Has Hans Christian Andersen's bewitching fairy tale, The Snow Queen, will be casting its icy spell over Theatre Royal audiences from today until January 5.

The story revolves around the wicked Snow Queen, a particularly nasty piece of work who is determined to plunge the whole world into eternal winter.

It's distinctly lacking in custard pie fights and Australian soap stars, but The Snow Queen promises to enchant both children and grown-ups with its magical storyline, spectacular sets and giant swans, wolves and reindeer.

Performances are at 2.30pm and 7.30pm, with tickets from £7. For more information, call the Theatre Royal Winchester box office on 01962 840440.