Kidfest presents the Maritime Marionettes in the second of its international shows specially devised for children.

With the aid of brilliant lighting and classical background music, Rumpelstiltskin tells the story of a poor miller's girl who is forced by a greedy king, to spin straw into gold. Realising her life is at stake, she turns to a strange little man who agrees to help her in exchange for her first-born child.

When she subsequently becomes Queen and mother to the future ruler of the kingdom, the mysterious stranger returns, giving her just three days to guess his name in exchange for her son. She embarks on a desperate search, with only one day left...

Mrs. Paula Maguire, producer of Kidfest, describes this 50-minute presentation as being "filled with colour, magic and excitement which children will love.'' The Nova Scotia-based, bi-lingual Maritime Marionettes of Heather and Darryll Taylor have received rave reviews since their formation in 1986.

The performances will take place in the Peacock Room of the Elbow Beach Hotel on Saturday and Sunday, February 5 and 6, at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Tickets at $12 ($15 for adults) can be reserved by telephoning 236-1085 or Fax 236-6456, or at the door prior to performances. Seating is limited, so reservations are advised.

RUMPELSTILTSKIN -- Will be on show in Bermuda this weekend.