IF REPETITION, like imitation, is a variety of flattery, then Charles Dickens is one of the most complimented authors of all.

With the exception of the original Christmas story – of the boy child born in a stable to save mankind from its sins – his tale of a miserly moneylender is surely the best known, and best loved, festive tale ever written.

Since it was published as a novella in 1843, it has been transformed into films, one-man theatrical shows, cartoons and even a Muppets movie, with Scrooge played through the years by Alistair Sim, Patrick Stewart, Albert Finney, Michael Caine and Scrooge McDuck.

Last night’s Ebenezer, Tommy Steele, is well-accustomed to the role. It’s his sixth time on tour with the Bill Kenwright-produced musical – and it shows.

Despite a solid supporting cast – with the children’s roles played by students of Chester’s Stagecoach Theatre School – the success or failure rested upon Steele’s shoulders.

An old pro, the 74-year-old Half A Sixpence actor gave a slick, enthusiastic performance that set itself a high benchmark for energy in the opening scenes and from then on stayed above it.

His spooky visitors ranged from a panto-esque Jacob Marley (Barry Howard) who looked as though he should have been weighed down as much by his electro-shocked wig as the chain he is forced to carry as atonement for his sins, to the Ghost of Christmas Past (Sarah Earnshaw), resembling a breathless Sugar Plum Fairy.

James Head played the Ghost of Christmas Present with the joyful vigour of Brian Blessed at a Medieval feast, while Nick Blair was hidden in a ceiling-grazing black shroud as the very creepy Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come.

It’s a rather old-fashioned production, which contains few truly memorable songs among its 26, and plays it safe in its choreography.

But there was no shortage of seasonal cheer in a show that keeps audiences returning for more.