REVENGE is sweet indeed for Miracle Theatre, who return to Dorset this month with their latest show-stopping family treat.

The Revenge of Rumpelstiltskin is Miracle’s alternative take on traditional pantomime.

It is a fantastic and witty blend of high energy performance, music and comedy that promises to be great value family entertainment.

The year is 1830 and the Ffitch Repertory Players are determined to bring all the glamour and glitz of pantomime to ordinary folk.

With a gripping storyline, yards of tasteful scenery and all the latest theatrical contraptions, they aim to brighten the lives of provincial audiences. But the actors’ best efforts are undermined by over-the-top dramas and calamities, with hilarious consequences!

“This show is not a typical modern panto,” said Miracle writer and director Bill Scott. “Instead it’s a rich and multi-layered experience – a show within a show.

“As well as enjoying an authentic taste of old-fashioned pantomime, with songs from the heyday of musical theatre, the audience will be treated to a hilarious insight into the tantrums, politics and health and safety nightmares that lurked backstage.”

With a posse of neurotic thespians, not to mention a scary fairy, a handsome prince who proves he cannot be trusted with scissors, and a smoke-breathing dragon, The Revenge of Rumpelstiltskin is guaranteed to transport the audience to the heyday of Georgian theatre and the birth of pantomime. You can see The Revenge of Rumpelstiltskin at Gillingham School, Gillingham on January 20 (call 01747 833844 for bookings and details), Bridport Arts centre on January 21 (call 01308 424204), The Exchange, Sturminster Newton on January 22 (call 01258 475137) and St Mary’s School, Puddletown on January 23 (call 01305 848206). All performances start at 7.30pm.