A SPRINKLE of stardust was cast over a packed audience at the Victoria Rooms in Fordingbridge on Friday as Forest Forge thespians performed a magical tale of love.

Rapid costume changes, innovative language and musical dexterity kept the audience spellbound as Neil Gamain’s Stardust was brought to life on stage for the very first time.

The rights to adapt the haunting tale were secured by the Forest Forge Theatre Company, who entrusted Russ Tunney with the task.

The tale held the audience captive, delighting in every scene.

Artistic director of the Forest Forge Kirstie Davis said: “Stardust has long been one of my favourite books – I love the epic storytelling, the fantastical worlds that we also completely believe in and recognise, and the wit as well as the emotion.”

Mr Tunney said: “Those that know Neil Gaiman’s work will know how he spins magic and gold with words. For those who don’t, expect to come out of the theatre believing in unicorns, witches and zombie trees and ultimately, love.

“Stardust is one of those special stories, like A Christmas Carol, that thrills you with danger and inspires you with hope at the same time. And if all this sounds like it is only suitable for children, think again. There is so much in the story for adults, humour, and beautiful haunting stories.”

Stardust, which was published in 1999, was famously made into a film starring Michelle Pfeiffer, Claire Danes and Robert De Niro in 2007.

There is still time to catch Stardust in January. Visit forestforge.co.uk for details.