THE magic of Christmas has been brought to life at the Playhouse's Salberg Studio this month.

Perfect for preschoolers and older children looking to escape the noise and mayhem of the pantomime, The Night before Christmas is an enchanting hour-long show with beautiful songs, dance and audience participation.

Glyn Kerslake and Gareth Machin’s musical adaptation of the centuries old Christmas tale is a joyful production featuring original compositions.

Dressed in bedclothes, the cast of four tell the tale of a little girl and her mum and dad excitedly waiting on Christmas Eve for Father Christmas to come.

Featuring excerpts from the poem of the same name by Clement Clarke Moore, the story is all about the anticipation of Father Christmas coming and the excitement on Christmas morning, but also touches on a deeper message about the true meaning of Christmas.

Little ones were spellbound as snow fell from the ceiling, letters were propelled up the chimney and an image of Santa in his sleigh was projected around the studio.

Adrian Grove is perfect as the kind-hearted Father (and a convincing Father Christmas, who gets stuck down the chimney).

Katharine Potter, as the young Martha, is endearing and Lara Stubbs, is gracious as Mother, both singing beautiful harmonies. While Playhouse pianist Glyn Kerslake holds the production together.

It is a jolly and heartwarming show perfect for all the family to get in the mood for Christmas.