What was once a seen as a Christmas celebration, the Nutcracker ballet is now a performance that can be appreciated and enjoyed all year round.

Reimagined for the 21st century, Matthew Bourne's take on the Tchaikovsky classic includes an abundance of vivid sets, stunning choreography, and hints of comedic elements.

It was the night before Christmas... and the traditional Victorian stately home we expect to see in this narrative has been replaced by a drab and bleak orphanage, run by characters Dr and Mrs Dross.

The scary pair drive fear into the orphans, as well as the audience - myself included.

Clara herself is introduced as an ever-hopeful orphan, longing to escape the current world she lives in, as she makes her way through a magical land in search of her handsome Nutcracker.

But how do you portray a whimsical story without saying a single word?

The cast in this performance truly bring the story of Clara and the Nutcracker to life.

Ashley Shaw and James Lovell both give an outstanding performance - they play spoilt children Sugar and Fritz in the orphanage, who transform later on into Princess Sugar and Prince Bon Bon.

Their 'sweet but psycho' persona lifts the whole show, with both hilarious moments between the two characters that make you laugh out loud, and spiteful charm that makes you want Clara to succeed in her quest.

So let yourself be whisked away to the Land of Ice and Snow, or maybe take a trip down to Sweetieland - both taking inspiration from the lavish 1930s Hollywood musicals.

Audience members will recognise Tchaikovsky's most famous piece of music, Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, as it is performed as a girl vs girl dance off, with Clara attempting to win her Nutcracker back from Princess Sugar.

Matthew Bourne utilises everything he has at the helm, including the use of props - one scene has real sweets which cast members consume on stage - as well as visual effects and beautiful backdrops by designer Anthony Ward.

A cracking production like this one has truly brought the Nutcracker ballet back to life, and will be enjoyed by a new generation of enthusiasts throughout all seasons.

Matthew Bourne's Nutcracker! runs at the Marlowe until Saturday March 12.