The Princess and the Pea by Michele L Vacca - based on the Hans Christian Andersen story – is about the young Prince Valiant's quest for a bride.

The Prince, excellently played by Matthew Poole, is sent on a mission by his father, the bumbling King Maximillian, played by Alistair Read, and his formidable grandmother Old Queen Maude, played with authority by Holly Turley.

The Prince is accompanied by Squire Donald, acted with enthusiasm by Billy Baxter, and on their journey they encounter several highly unsuitable Princesses played by Abbie Kelsey, Aisha Pell, Danielle Rhodes, Lucy Slade, Bethany Roberts, Evie Merrikin-Davey, Charlotte Littleworth and Jade Dando.

Everyone one of them was well performed and convincingly characterised.

The quest ends with Princess Olivia, beautifully played by Holly O'Neill, and her maid Lady Hildegarde, Bethany Hollingworth, who catches Squire Donald's eye

The Princess successfully passes Queen Maude's pea-under-the- mattress test which proves her to be a true princess, so she and Valiant can live happily ever after – well this is a fairy tale!

The diction throughout was excellent; everyone played their part with energy and enthusiasm and were clearly enjoying themselves.

All credit must go to the director – Sheena Liversidge for pulling it all together. With Gail Hinkins, Audra Bishop and Becky Bradley she created a wonderful show.

With young talent like this waiting in the wings Horncastle Theatre Company looks set for a bright future.