IF ever we needed a bit of Christmas cheer - it's now.

Thank goodness, then, for the irrepressible energy of the Glad Rag Production Company. The team have worked tirelessly to pull together a Covid-safe show in a bid to sprinkle some much-needed festive magic over Bournemouth.

Usually staged at the Regent Centre in Christchurch, this year's Christmas Spectacular takes place at Bournemouth's Pavilion Theatre. Seating is Covid-secure – there are two empty seats between each household, as well as empty seats in front and behind, ticket holders are given allocated arrival times and asked to wear masks while in the building. A one-way system has also been set up so there is still access to the bar and toilets.

These measures continued when it came to the cast members – a pre-show announcement informed the audience that they had all been tested, and kept the same dance partners throughout to minimise contact.

However, as Covid has not spread to the North Pole, we were told, that would be the last mention of the pandemic for the rest of the evening.

This year's production has been adapted from last year's to make a one-act show. But fear not, the evening is still crammed full of all the fun, laughter, song and dance, magic and sparkle that we have come to expect from the Christmas Spectacular.

The cast members looked ecstatic to be on stage again, doing what they do best, and the feeling is infectious – it was a joy to be back in the theatre, even if it was only half full, in accordance with government guidelines.

This hugely entertaining show is packed full of all your favourite Christmas songs, as well as some lesser known tunes, including the enchanting Once Upon A December.

Expect slick, energetic dancing, spine-tingling singing, corny jokes, stunning costumes and a whole lot of fun. This is just what we need to lift our spirits this Christmas – utterly magical.