EVERYONE knows the story of Cinderella, the orphan girl whose haphazard approach to where she left her footwear bagged her a Prince.

It’s one of the most loved fairy tales and, as a little girl, I remember watching a certain animated movie over and over, wishing I too could find some mice with dress designing skills that could put Coco Chanel to shame.

But it is time for the mice to step aside as the Octagon Theatre rats shine centre stage.

This version of the tale by acclaimed writer Mike Kenny promises fun, magic and music, and families won’t be disappointed.

There’s a wonderful mix of witty writing, poignancy, memorable songs and charm to this Bolton tale.

The story is told through the eyes of the rats who help Cinderella on her journey to find the Prince.

As a result, there’s a mix of child-like innocence and over-the-top moments.

Lucy Faint brings a lovely down-to-earth and likable charm to Cinderella.

This is no stuck-up princess, but your average girl who wins over the prince with humour and a fabulous pair of shoes, not to mention a light-up dress!

But for those who love the more ‘traditional’ glamour there is still a touch of the magical princess to be found, especially in her musical numbers.

The cast of rodents have the task of taking on all the other roles in our story and were a joy to watch.

In particular, Anne O’Riordan, the cheeky seat-eating Teeth teamed up with Alicia McKenzie’s Claws, as the horrible but hilarious ugly sisters – think Mean Girls in wigs!

There was a brilliant touch of devilish likableness to the duo and evil stepmother, played by Felicity Sparks, and Tomas Wolstenholme brought a sweet melancholy to the story as caring rat Ears and as Cinderella’s father.

Meanwhile, Alexander Bean is lovable as the rather slow rat Whiskers and quietly charming as our prince.

They managed to create plenty of giggling and laughter among the audience, with both small and ‘big kids’ tickled by the story and participation with the cast.

While the staging isn’t what you expect from a Christmas play, the small cast soon bring it to life with musical instruments and props.

The round stage is the perfect arena for the rats kitchen and with some inventive use of lighting, and a bit of imagination, the whole auditorium easily becomes the palace.

And, of course, because it is Christmas time after all, plenty of fairy lights to boot (again, look out for the dress)!

Cinderella, directed by Benn Occhipinti, runs until January 14.