AS the programme notes say, the nights are drawing in and what better time to curl up with a good ballet. Birmingham Royal Ballet have once again brought their talent to the North-East to enchant audiences with this gothic fairy tale.

The ballet was created more than ten years ago to a score by Glen Buhr, and I have to confess that it is not one of my favourites. The dark and menacing woodland scenes, and dimly-lit castle interiors, make for a sombre atmosphere. The animal masks worn by the eponymous beast and his courtiers also act as something of a barrier to a fully expressive performance. Having said that, there were many delightful moments where the David Bintley choreography worked magically with the music to create fantastic effects.

I was thrilled to see Momoko Hirata in the title role as Belle, a principal ballerina I had not previously managed to catch, and she was terrific. So dainty, so warm and moving in her portrayal of this kind-hearted girl, and ethereal at the close when her Beast becomes her Prince.

Marion Tait, assistant director of BRB and doyen of the company, performed the comic Grandmother role with panache and excellent comic timing. I was also mesmerised by the corps de ballet’s portrayal of the Birds of the Air and Forest swooping around the stage so realistically. The wedding scene between Belle’s sisters and Monsieur Cochon, who was indeed very porcine in his demeanour, was hilarious and delivered an effective contrast to the more sombre scenes.

All in all, this was a satisfying afternoon’s viewing and we are so lucky to have the chance to see these talented dancers on our doorstep.

Marj Nelson