DERBY Theatre's second Christmas show has got off to a bit of a cold start.

First, technical issues caused the cancellation of the first preview performance, and then the harsh weather froze ticket holders in their homes.

But it would be a great shame if the city gave a frosty reception to The Wind in the Willows, because it's a show that's more than likely to warm the cockles of your heart.

The first of the three Derby Live festive productions to open, it has set the benchmark this Christmas.

Written in 1908, Kenneth Grahame's classic tale has been enchanting generations of children ever since. Clearly its wide appeal and family-friendly nature make it a good choice for a festive treat.

But despite that fact that it has percolated down even to people who have never read the source material, it's an episodic, rather rambling tale that must have been hard to adapt to the stage.

Derby Live's production, directed by Hannah Chissick (who gave us the Snow Queen a year ago) manages to overcome those difficulties by putting the emphasis on the characters.

Taking centre stage is Sean McKenzie (an endearing reindeer in the Snow Queen), as a mischievous Toad, rampaging from one madcap adventure to another.

Keeping him company are the director's father, Jack Chissick, as a wise old Badger, Peter Caulfield as a frightfully posh Ratty and James Loye's studenty Mole.

But best of all are the production values. Designer Philip Witcomb and Derby Live's talented backstage crew have delivered a sumptuous production that's a joy to behold.

Whether we are messing about on the river, taking a gypsy caravan on a journey, or lost in the Wild Wood, it's a visual feast. Easy on the eye, the show is also pleasing to the ear, thanks to Tony Coffey's music.

It's also a playful show, with a train chase sequence done in the style of a silent movie working especially well.

There's perhaps a sense that parents with old fashioned sensibilities will enjoy this more than those modern youngsters who have moved on to the delights of their X Box and Facebook.

Four furry friends facing adversity might seem all too Edwardian for anyone wanting Call of Duty for Christmas.

But if you enjoy classic storytelling, a gentle ode to the values of friendship and well-produced theatre, this is a Christmas treat that will surely melt away your winter blues.

WHAT: Wind in the Willows

WHERE: Derby Theatre

WHEN: Until Saturday, January 15, evenings and matinees

TICKETS: £8-£21, concessions available

CALL: 01332 255800