But it did have opening-night problems with the sound, depriving the storyline of essential clarity in the first half, and occasionally causing ear-ache.
That was a pity because a lot of good, hard work has gone into this frolicsome fantasy musical with its home-spun hints of real-life messages – as in refrains such as 'A person's a person no matter how small' and 'Tell yourself how lucky you are'. The production is certainly a visual delight with its colourful drapes and costumes and often quirky movement. Principal among several outstanding individual performances is that of James Hume as the master of ceremonies, the Cat in the Hat.
Already established as one of the area's brightest young talents, Hume here shows off his song-and-dance skills with the lightest of touches.
It is impossible not to laugh at James George every time he appears, grinning inanely, in his pink elephant suit, impossible not to weep with him when sorrow strikes. Fine, contrasting singing performances come from Kerri McLeod, Helen Stoddart and Kate Taylor, and Jamie Papanicolaou is another youngster to enhance an already glowing reputation.
If technical problems can be resolved for future performances (until Saturday), this will be a top show.