MALVERN'S Forum Theatre is to undergo a makeover of truly Lawrence Llewellyn-Bowen proportions for six days in early December when it is transformed into a huge ice rink.

A spectacular 30 tonne frozen stage is to be built in the arena for the visit of the Russian Ice Stars, widely recognised as the finest professional skating company in the world.

It will be the first time Malvern has hosted an ice show and the touring production has been made possible by advanced technology that allows the creation of temporary ice surfaces indoors.

For its latest visit to Britain the Russian troupe is bringing two brand new shows, Sensational Ice and The Nutcracker on Ice.

This stunning company boasts 285 competition medals between them and is famed throughout the world for its unique style of theatre on ice.

The company comprises fine skaters along with circus performers to enable them to create specialist aerial effects.

These effects continue to delight audiences, leading to frequent standing ovations and adding new dimensions to shows.

Joining the company this season will be five new skaters, amongst them is Ioulia Barsoukova, who claimed gold medal in the 2000 Olympic Rhythmic Gymnastics.

During the same year she became World Champion at the World Championships in Japan. At the end of 2001 she retired from competitive sport to concentrate on her skating. She has been awarded the presidential honour of Order of Honour for her contribution to Russian sport.

Sensational Ice will consist of the very best highlights from every show the Russian Ice Stars have performed.

Also being performed will be the traditional Christmas favourite, The Nutcracker, as a magical ballet on ice. This famous fairytale will be brought to life through Tchaikovsky's music. Both shows contain all the edge-of-the-seat elements audiences worldwide have come to expect.

Promoters Wild Rose International pioneered the concept of "theatre on ice" by producing full-length productions designed to fit theatre stages.

The first show, The Sleeping Beauty, toured the UK throughout 1993 to wide acclaim and has been swiftly followed by a succession of hugely popular productions such as Peter Pan and The Phantom of the Opera on Ice.

The Russian Ice Stars play Malvern's Forum Theatre from Tuesday, December 3 to Sunday, December 8. Tickets £22.50 and £20.50.

Call the box office on 01684 892277.