RECREATING a film which proved such a big hit three decades ago can be difficult, especially when you take it to the stage.

But full marks to the producers of Summer Holiday for bringing to the Opera House a show which loses nothing of the entertainment value and feelgood factor associated with the original.

Thursday's world premiere (June 13) was justly rewarded with not so much a standing ovation as a dancing ovation, reflective of the foot-tapping atmosphere which had been conjured up all night.

Darren Day filled the shoes of his predecessor with such uncanny ease it was difficult to see the joins until, of course, Sir Cliff joined him on stage for a memorable finale of Summer Holiday.

And although he can sing, move and steal the hearts of the girls in exactly the same way as the pop knight, it was obvious from his performance that Darren has an impressive future ahead of him in his own right.

Thumbs up too for co-star Clare Buckfield who came of age in her first big-time stage production as stowaway Barbara - and of course Faith Brown who, despite giving the role of spiteful Stella her all, managed to win over the audience simply because she was enjoying playing the part so much.

Ross King proved a surprise hit as the agent Wally - his panto-like exchanges with Stella were a joy to watch - and the producers can be proud of a very talented supporting cast who proved they could more than hold their own in a fair number of solo singing and dancing slots.

The big red London bus aside, scenery is pretty basic, although in keeping with a show which is primarily about singing, dancing and having a good time.

There was certainly no shortage of that as the audience celebrated the finale by dancing in the aisles and left the theatre singing and humming all the hits.

Summer Holiday will be a sure-fire hit and is guaranteed to bring the crowds flocking to Blackpool throughout the summer.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.