THERE are few more delightful things to see over the Christmas period than the faces of excited children just waiting for the next surprise.  And few places where it happens more often than in the theatre.

In the Colston Hall’s Lantern, Bristol Old Vic and Wardrobe Theatre are performing an adaptation of Edward Ardizzone’s Little Tim and the Brave Sea Captain …  four singing, dancing actors bringing to vibrant life the story of a little boy whose only desire is to be a sailor

You’re much too young, his mother and father tell him.  But Tim is determined, and the more time he spends with salty old tar Boaty McPhee, the more his determination grows. When Boaty takes him on board a large ocean-going ship, our Little hero hides. But the brave captain of the ship doesn’t hold with stowaways, and her punishment is stern and instant,

The 60 minute show is as suitable for under fives as for older sea dogs, and all join in with gusto in this inventive adaptation, devised by the company and directed by Helena Middleton.

The young actors are Emily Greenslade, Kerry Lovell, Jesse Meadows and Ben Vardy, and the show is beautifully designed by Ruby Spencer Pugh in Rachael Duthie in charge of the enchanting lighting,

An encounter with Little Tim would be a perfect break from the rigours of Christmas shopping or a treat for all the family, and the idea introduction to the thrill of taking part in exciting live theatre,  Just watch how difficult it is to persuade the youngsters in the front row to keep off the stage.

It’s on at various day times until 8th January.

GP-W