NORTHERN Broadsides theatre company brings swash-buckling new voices to its adaptation of Cyrano de Bergerac.
The romantic comedy by Edmond Rostand - currently on at the Liverpool Playhouse - is a powerful classic that woirks on so many levels - an adult fairy tale in parts.
It has been treated to screen versions from Steve Martin, Gerard Depardieu and even Morecambe and Wise (40 years ago).
Now dedicated Deborah McAndrew - former Corrie star - puts her accomplished 'modern writer' stamp on proceedings.
It is the journey of three young people in love and the energy, passion and integrity that surfaces.
A love triangle bound to end in tears but with a lot of fun and soul searching along the way.
The 25-year-old company have joined forces with the New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme.
While Deborah clearly relishes the text her husband Conrad Nelson is director and composer.
It is a creatively-strong partnership full of brave ideas.
A period set design and costumes provide a great-to-look at backdrop to the France-Spain war of 1640.
Set in the golden age of musketeers there's some lovely songs aong the way.
The versatile actors-musicans shine on the sublime Man who fell from the moon.
Rostand's unrequited love story is told through poetry and prose in the consistently inventive two and half hours on stage.
Humour and pathos always make good bedfellows Cyrano, the witty poet is a self-conscious large-nosed writer and fighter.
He is played with considerable energy by Christian Edwards - a performance reminscent of Dave Tennant's incarnation as Doctor Who.
Adam Barlow is Christian the well-meaning but tongue-tied soldier who can only come up with 'neck-nibbling' when wooing Roxane.
A bakery scene offers much comedy while a desolate battlefield is slickly conveyed.
A touching finale in a nunnery confirms the moral theme that real beauty lies within.
One striking element of this touring production is the lighting which, like Cyrano's way with words, speaks volumes when communicating light and shade.
Three Stars - seriously funny and moving
The show is at the Playhouse until March 25.
Tickets from the box office on 0151 7099 4776.
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