I AM a huge fan of ice skating and I was looking forward to the Russian Ice Stars’ latest show, Peter Pan on Ice.

Unfortunately, the addition of a pirate radio reporter narrating the tale ruined an otherwise enchanting performance.

There is no denying the talent and skill of the incredible ice skaters in this show; I oohed and aahed with the rest of the audience as they performed increasingly impressive moves, lifts and aerial stunts.

I was particularly amazed by Valdis Mintals, who took the role of author JM Barrie, watching his story unfold from the side of the stage and intermittently involving himself in the action.

Mintals was clearly the best skater in the show and seemed a little underused.

Ekaterina Bokiy Mintals was also excellent as Tinkerbell, effortlessly graceful as she glided across the ice and capturing the mischievous nature of Peter Pan’s fairy companion.

The costumes and set were great, the dances were fun, elegant, beautiful - or all three - and the classic story was well told, but there were some down points.

Anton Smirnov seemed miscast as Peter Pan and his skating skills, although impressive, didn’t seem to be up to the title role. There were also some issues with the sound quality at points, but my main gripe was with local Wave 105 presenter Simon Clarke as Buccaneer Bob reporting for Jolly Roger Radio.

I’m not sure why this part was included as his descriptions of the action on stage were completely unnecessary and added nothing to the show.

If anything I felt these monologues took away from the drama and pace of the show, slowing it down and giving it an almost pantomime feel at points.

Nonetheless the skaters really are a wonder to behold and hopefully they’ll learn their lesson for next time and rely on their incredible talent to tell the story.

COREY ROSS