THE classic tale A

Christmas Carol has been brought to life on The South Bank this week. But this is no normal stage adaption. Its a spectacular fusion of dance, acrobatics and recognised classical music standards.

Renowned choreographer Christopher Hampson, who has a solid track record with the English National Ballet, has turned his talents to reworking Dickens much-loved story.

Captivating dancing and atmospheric sets combine with acrobatics, stilt-walking and flying to bring to life this epic struggle between jealousy and greed.

Cold-hearted business partners Scrooge and Marley were obsessed with money they simply couldn't get enough of it.

This greedy philosophy led to a lonely life and at Marley's funeral, Scrooge was the only mourner.

Now working alone, Scrooge sits busy in his London counting house keeping a close eye on his clerk, Bob Cratchit, who is only allowed to take Christmas Day off if he goes in early on Boxing Day!

Late into the night... clank, clunk, clank... The clatter of manacles wakes a distraught Scrooge. Marley's ghost appears. Adorned with the large and heavy chains, built up over a lifetime of meanness, he warns Scrooge to change his ways or suffer the same fate. Marley goes on to predict three ghostly visitations and he begs Scrooge to take heed

What follows is a journey to Christmas past, present and future which shows Scrooge just what the festive period is really all about.

The familiar voice of Eric Sykes as the narrator only adds to the spectacle and an all-star cast of talented performers of all disciplines promise to make the experience a true Christmas family treat.

A specially-arranged score, featuring instantly recognisable classic works, brings together all the charm, exuberance and fun of Schubert, Mendelssohn, the Strauss family and other popular composers, as well as memorable and heart-warming Christmas carols.

Seats for A Christmas Carol are priced from £10 to £29.50 depending on where you sit.

There are group bargains and two performances every day up until January 6 except New Years Eve, at the Royal Festival Hall. Call 020 87960 4242 to book.