I try really hard not pre-judge shows, but I had read Sheree Fitch’s YA novel The Gravesavers, and it seemed to me that the new theatre company, Halifax Theatre for Young People, was being overly ambitious in mounting it. It just didn’t seem possible that a play could convey the time shifts between 1873 and present-day in an easily understandable way, or that it would be able to capture Fitch’s lip-slippery language and offbeat characters. And what about the shipwreck? How on earth could any play not on a Mirvish-budget hope to portray the all-important and terrifying shipwreck that is at the centre of the story? Well, I now know better than to underestimate the magic of theatre. Chris Heide’s theatrical adaptation has captured the beauty and poetry of Fitch’s work. Tessa Mendel’s capable and inspired direction ensures that even young kids will be spellbound. And as for the acting? The five core actors truly lit up the stage. The Gravesavers is must-see theatre for the whole family.---Kate Watson. Matinees Sat and Sun at 2pm.