Snow! turns to slush

Santa Claus is coming to town but in this new Christmas musical, that's a threat not a promise. Sick of being in charge only one day a year, he wants to kill off St George, tackle Cupid and take over the calendar.

As Father Christmas threatens to carve up the Easter Bunny, it's an enjoyable romp but you'll be pleased he doesn't succeed.

That's down to delivery elf Nick (Bennett Andrews), who escapes his boss and tries to save the world by convincing people of the magic of Christmas.

That means inflicting singalong classics on everyone who has come to think that it is just an excuse for drunken 'foreplay in doorways'.

Andrews tackles his role with huge enthusiasm, convincing the equally impressive Jack and Jill (Daniel Reeves and former S-Clubber Hannah Spearritt) that there is more to Christmas than Brussels sprouts and stressing about presents.

And Richard Marsh's script has a lot of zing, building up to a rousing finale.

But the the whole thing is so contrived, and the stage largely populated by such irritating characters that there's little the cast can do to salvage the evening.

With massive tightening up, Snow! could make for feelgood slush. As it is, there's simply not much here.

Until Jan 7, Sound Theatre, 10 Wardour Street WC1, Mon to Wed and Sat 8pm,Thu and Fri 6pm and 9pm, Sat mats 4pm, £15 to £22. Tel: 0870 890 0503. www.seetickets.com Tube: Leicester Square

Snow! The Musical