Children will be delighted to discover that Hans Christian Anderson's magical tale, The Snow Queen, is to be staged at the Oxford Playhouse during the Easter holiday.

The Snow Queen is considered one of Anderson's best-loved fairy tales and will be staged by the acclaimed Italian troupe, Teatro Kismet, one of Europe's leading theatre companies for young audiences, combining acrobatics, dance and music.

The story concerns Kay, who is kidnapped by the evil Snow Queen and his warm heart is turned to ice. His childhood friend, Gerda, sets out on a perilous quest to rescue him and encounters some wondrous characters along the way. These creatures will be brought to life through dance and colourful creative lighting techniques.

Teatro Kismet is running a Young Critics competition while the show is running at the Playhouse from Tuesday until Saturday, April 7.

It offers children aged between seven and 16 a chance to write a 250-word review of the show. The winner will win £100 of theatre tokens, a framed photograph of the show and a signed programme. For more details go to the website www.the-snow-queen.co.uk/young critics.asp For further details of the show and to book tickets call the theatre box office on 01865 305305 or book on line at www.oxfordplayhouse.com