Theatre Review: Metta's Little Mermaid Circus Sensation @ Theatre Royal Windsor

Last night, I took the girls to Theatre Royal Windsor to watch the award-winning Metta Theatre tell Hans Christian Andersen's well-loved tale of the Little Mermaid. But this was a mermaid tale with a difference – one with spectacular circus choreography and enchanting songs.

This year marks the 250th anniversary of circus, and Metta are celebrating with this special production, which starts beneath the ocean conveyed with a cleverly designed set. You can hear the seagulls cries and the water forming into waves above, evoking the feeling of being at the ocean, and as some of the world’s leading circus artists perform acrobatic feats, we see the mermaids glide through the water. My eldest daughter, Mya, does gymnastics and she was in awe right from word go, gasping at every stunt and asking: 'How did they do that?'

We are introduced to the Little Mermaid (Rosie Rowlands), with her seahorse friend, who longs for life on land, while the handsome prince is lured by the sea. The prince is caught up in a raging storm, portrayed by a breathtaking display of acrobatics, dramatic music and lighting, and as his ship sinks, the Little Mermaid rises to land through incredible ring work to save him.

Falling head over heels in love, the Little Mermaid decides to sacrifice her siren voice to the powerful Sea Witch in exchange for legs, so she can be with her prince. Her Seahorse friend tries to dissuade her, but she is set on her plans.

The girls were most excited about seeing the Sea Witch (Roo Jenkyn-Jones), and although she didn't look exactly as expected (more old lady than scary monster), the cry-wheel solo while she creates the magic potion didn't disappoint. It was absolutely incredible.

However, the Little Mermaid soon discovers life on land is not as she dreamed and, unable to return to her sisters beneath, she remains floating helplessly above the waves in the Sea Witch's lair. With glow-in-the-dark creatures, spellbinding juggling and haunting songs, there is a desolate sense of loneliness. Her only hope rests with her sisters (multi-skilled with their somersaults and playing their instruments and singing while hanging upside down in a harness).

We were on the edges of our seats, wondering if they would be able to help the Prince conquer his fears, return to the sea and reveal his true feelings before it is too late…

With a trapeze duet to rival that of Zac Efron and Zendaya in The Greatest Showman, this reimagined cross-art-form telling of the fairytale by these multi-talented actors is beautiful production that will enchant everyone. If you've ever secretly wanted to run away and join the circus, this is the show to head for.

On at Theatre Royal Windsor until Saturday 12th May Tickets from £9.50 www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk