FROM the Matrix-like black robed figures at the start to the red-eyed wolves that roam the forests of the mind - this was a magnetic Beauty and The Beast back once again at Stratford.

Surprisingly humour played a large part. There was an hilarious introduction to Beauty's family, an amazing field of mud, and brilliant robots. It was not camp innuendo, or cheap jokes, but a simple but very astute way of scooping the children into the story in a way that kept them locked into the plot as firmly as if they were facing The Beast themselves.

The first half of this action-filled story is so alive and challenging that it dares the audience to take its eyes from the stage, until the breathing space of the interval.

Singling out individuals in this excellent cast is almost impossible, but the superb Beast played by Gary Sefton is to be feared. He climbs like the black spider last seen in Richard, and bounces colossus-like on springy legs to tower over his minions.

In this age of virtual reality, audiences expect to be impressed and they were not disappointed, especially when the Beast's two robots with their creaks and clanks timed to perfection, bestrode the stage.

An hilarious Beauty played by Karen Paullada, catches just the right balance of the innocent girl who is also strong enough to mould the Beast to her will - a real contrast to her delinquent family. Great music, dancers, amazing lighting and spot-on sound, the production is altogether wonderful family entertainment.

Beauty and the Beast runs from November 15 to January 16. Ticket hotline is 0870 6091110.

REVIEW BY MARTIN SMITH