Kismet, Albert Halls, Bolton. Runs until Saturday FARNWORTH AODS have made an ambitious choice inZKismetZwhich demands spectacular costumes and sumptuous sets before anyone sets foot on stage.

When it comes to glamour and glitz, Farnworth are second to none and are well up to the challenge for this show.

I've seen many a professional production which did not have the dazzling attractions which were provided last night.

Director and choreographer Bernard Smith paints with a broad brush and the result is a colourful and sparkling production.

As Hajj, the poet, Colin Manchester struts his stuff with some style and his scenes with Susan Foster, who is a beautifully over-the-top vampish Lalume, are a delight.

Allen Christey is an outstanding Caliph. His voice is magnificent and his acting no less so.

Sarah Greenwood, as Marsinah, is a very welcome newcomer to Farnworth and matches Christey in talent.

Don Howcroft makes the most of the role of Omar Khayyam bringing his usual dedication and well-honed skills to the role. As the Wazir of Police, Peter Durham is the baddie we love to hate and, rightly, plays the part for laughs.

Among the dancers the Three Princess of Ababu (Adele Kearns, Darrell White and Emma Matthews) were a particular hit with the audience and merited the extra applause they received.

Musical direction is by Simon Gay.

KismetZis a get-away-from-it-all show which has some terrific songs, notablyZBaubles, Bangles and Beads, Stranger in ParadiseZandZThis Is My Beloved.

It's well worth a visit. DOREEN CROWTHER

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