IF enjoyment of a play can be measured by body language, then my four-year-old son Jack loved this Northern Stage presentation. It wasn't so much his clapping as his rolling onto his back and kicking his legs in the air with delight that made me realise this show is a hit.

From the moment we stepped inside the theatre, decked like a circus marquee in bright red and yellow, we knew we were in for magic and merriment. The cast - a ringmaster, an aerialist, a clown and a musician - were introduced with Clanger-like whistle noises, which won the children's confidence immediately.

The play centres around a golden bird, who lives above the city with her husband. But one day, she is sold to a wealthy merchant, who tries to keep her tethered. Hating her loss of freedom, she refuses to sing for the merchant. Finally, she tricks him by pretending to die of a broken heart.

There's plenty of repetitive farce for the kids. If finding hats, coats, bags and shoes wasn't fun enough, the mention of sweaty socks and stinky vests had the house in uproar. There was also plenty of shouting and cheering, but the tempo mellowed for the bird's gentle songs and trapeze work, ending with a downpour of white feathers.

At an hour long, this is a perfect performance for under sixes, and would be an ideal introduction to the theatre for any toddler. Children will love it - and adults will love seeing the kids whooping with delight.

* Runs until January 8. Box office 0871 7000 12.

Published: 30/11/2004