On entering the auditorium of the Pegasus to see Oxfordshire Theatre Company’s winter show, Alice in Wonderland, I took especial note of the set — aware that this production would be sent forth to a myriad of different halls, theatres and community centres.

Rebecca Lee and her team have done an excellent job creating a colourful, enchanting yet practical design which will bring theatrical magic to the eclectic mix of venues hither and yon.

And what of the show that graces this scenery? That is top-notch too. A fine script by Neil Duffield brings alive this quirky Oxford story in a delightful way. Set both on the idyllic river banks of Victorian Oxford and in the crazy world of Wonderland, it is our own home-grown children’s tale. There were many children in the packed Pegasus audience and they were buzzing with excitement throughout. So were the adults.

Amazingly, this complex and striking story is expertly realised by a cast of only three, but they are great performances. Peter F. Gardiner is tremendous as both Charles Dodgson (aka Lewis Carroll) and the Red Queen, while Kate Scott is a winning Alice. The energy with which Ami Stidolph juggles the roles of White Rabbit, the Duchess, the Cheshire Cat and the Maid was breathtaking and brilliant. As for Gardiner and Stidolph’s Tweedledum and Tweedledee — they were completely hilarious. Sure-handed in her direction, Karen Simpson has brought many exciting touches to the show, and a charming score from composer Andrew Dodge enhances the story even more.

OTC are touring this production throughout our county and beyond, to more than 50 venues, including the Mill Art Centre Banbury (Dec 20), Wytham Village Hall (Jan 15), Carterton Community Centre (Jan 18), Witney Corn Exchange (Feb 18), Oxford Deaf and Hard of Hearing Centre, St Ebbe’s (Feb 19), Larkmead School (March 1) and many more. For the full list of dates go to www.oxfordshiretheatrecompany.co.uk.