Neil Gaiman's novel 'The Ocean at the End of the Lane' has dropped into The Lowry and has been adapted in a supernatural way.

This play has been uniquely staged and tells the story, not just through dialogue, but visually through the use of lights, props and stylistic movements.

The story revolves around two families who live parallel lives to each other.

First, we see a typical family with the usual sibling dynamics, living in England.

Then we meet Lettie Hempstock who lives in an old house with her eccentric mum and grandma - however they are out of the ordinary as they have magical powers.

It is through these powers that the families intertwine as the 12-year-old boy from the ‘normal’ family takes on one of the ‘Fleas’ which is encountered in the magical world. The boy and Lettie, played by Millie Hikasa,  go on a surreal journey and experience to get rid of it.

The journey is both expressionistic yet insightful. The theme of memory and past experiences run throughout the production, playing on the metaphor of what we leave behind in our lives.

The costumes complemented the theme and had a mystical element used to great effect.

It also took several actors to create a huge monster as they dressed in black with feathers, carrying props to create the image of the creature.

The use of props was also very effective when sheets were implemented to make the ocean and a puppet was used to create the image of the 12-year-old boy swimming.

The actors, led by Charlie Brooks as Ursula/Skarthach, were phenomenal in this production.

They used movement to tell the story through their physical presence which was inspirational. There were also sections of lyrical dancing to highlight pain and loss. These stylised movements were highly effective and symbolic.

Another visual aspect of this play was the use of lighting.

Strobes, profiles, spotlights and coloured gels were used to great effect.

There was never a dull moment on the stage. The lights changed pace from starting off blue which set the scene, before building up to a whole lighting sequence for when the monster arrived.

There were flashing lights, coloured ones and blackouts - which all played their part in advancing the story.

The Ocean at the End of the Lane is on until January 8. It truly is amazing, and you will be fascinated.

It’s a full-on show and you will be blown away, it really is something out of this world – literally!