DICKENS' tale of how awful old miser Ebenezer Scrooge found the milk of human kindness and the spirit of the season is almost as traditional as Christmas itself.
This Christmas, local impresario Bill Kenwright has brought a stunning new version of the classic tale to the Empire Theatre that will leave you with a warm happy glow inside, a song on your lips and a spring in your step.
Based on A Christmas Carol, Scrooge the musical was originally written for the big screen by the respected British lyricist and composer Leslie Bricusse who also wrote songs for the film versions of Doctor Dolittle and Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.
But while the film version of Scrooge - starring Albert Finney in the title role - was considered adequate, the stage version was a huge success. And judging by last night's performance, this version - directed by Bob Tomson - shows every sign of upholding that particular tradition.
There are two definite stars to this particular humorous feel-good show.
Legendary entertainer Tommy Steele stars as the eponymous Scrooge in a fantastically energetic performance which almost puts lie to the fact that he celebrated his 66th birthday almost a year ago.
The wry charm and killer grin that were so apparent in classic 1960s films like Half a Sixpence and Finian's Rainbow are still there, as is his marvellous voice.
He shuffles, swaggers and leaps his way around the stage belting out increasingly passionate and powerful musical numbers showing the Scrooge's transformation from a stooped miserable excuse for humanity to reborn character - replete with Father Christmas outfit.
