PERHAPS the most wonderful, in the true sense of the word, thing about Christmas is to watch the delight and excitement on the faces of young children.

And what better way to do it than to go along to Poole Lighthouse’s festive show Little Robin Red Vest, a two-person retelling of Jay Fearnley’s beloved story of how the robin got his distinctive colouring. Andy Owens and Sophie Ross of Filskit Theatre will be unfolding the tale, with the aid of puppets and Makaton, until 14th December in the Sherling Studio space.

This is a multi-sensory show suitable for children aged from 2 to 6 and their families and friends, played on a simple and versatile set and allowing the all-dancing, all-singing Sophie and Ross to take turns at being the robin, ably abetted by a charming little brown flying puppet. I guess most children know the story of how this helpful and selfless little bird gave up his seven vests to other animals more needy than himself, until, on Christmas night, he was left brown and shivering with no vest to keep him warm.

His goodness and thoughtfulness got its reward, when he was scooped up by Santa – and happily this Santa had a super-knitting wife, so the chilly robin was not only full of food and toasty, but had a bright new bespoke vest, never to come off again.

There are shows on several days, at various times, and you can rest easy that if your child wants to get close in to the action, no-one will mind. Dressing up is optional, but its a chance to wear all those fancy outfits.

Contact the Lighthouse box office, or go online, for full details.

GP-W

PS Filskit is a Shetland word for lively or cheeky.