TOM’S Midnight Garden is a pretty magnificent place – who wouldn’t want somewhere like that to escape to.

Secret tunnels, endless hiding places, trees to climb and happy kids running wild.

We can all conjure it up in our head but to do this on stage takes lots of creative talent.

Theatre by the Lake’s Christmas production nails it. This magical production of Philippa Pearce’s much-loved book, adapted by David Wood, is a joy to watch.

It was lashing it down as I headed into the theatre, delighted to be drawn into Tom’s time-travelling world.

I sometimes struggle with adults playing younger people but Tyler Dobbs is brilliant as Tom. From the moment the scowling, taciturn teenager trudges on to the stage to be greeted by his over enthusiastic aunt you know it’s going to work.

The youth has been sent away to stay with his aunt and uncle in their old, gardenless house as his brother has measles. He’s not happy.

He’s bored, lonely and desperate to play outside. Tom is wonderfully juxtaposed with the delightful Jo Mousley as Aunt Gwen. She’s a breath of fresh air in this sombre house, fluttering around with cakes and chat.

Toby Gaffney is perfect as Uncle Alan. The three of them partake in some cleverly choreographed and entertaining mealtimes.

Tom initially counts down the days until he can go home. Then, one night he hears the old grandfather clock strike 13.

Guided by the ghostly voices of the house, he sneaks downstairs and opens the back door to discover a magical garden – full of colour and life.

He meets Hatty and the two become firm friends and co-adventurers. Rose Basista as Hatty is charming, capturing her warm, open character as she grows up.

Her cousins, Hubert (Kemi Clarke), Edgar (Keiren Hamilton-Amos) and James (Jack Humphrey) are full of life and fun as they career around the garden. They’re hilarious to watch in action

There’s a lovely sense of energy, movement and playful theatricality throughout the production, including a brilliant goose chase, some impressive puppetry and beautiful skating.

Most of the actors play more than one role. And they all portray their characters perfectly, from gruff man of few words Abel (Toby Gaffney) to poker-faced Aunt Grace (Meriel Schofield).

Director Liz Stevenson has filled a much-loved children’s classic full of life and fun. It was a pleasure to join Tom on his magical mystery journey.

The talented team worked so well together. And for anyone who’s not feeling festive yet, there’s a fabulous winter wonderland scene which had everyone smiling.

Tom’s Midnight Garden runs at Theatre by the Lake, Keswick, until Saturday, January 15.