THEY promised it would be spectacular and boy does it deliver.

The show that’s been three years in the making brought comic book characters to life at the world premiere in Manchester.

This is a stunning show, and one that would probably not even have been possible five years ago as it relies on cutting edge technology to bring Gotham City to life.

A massive video wall (bat shaped, naturally) becomes a circus tent, Bruce Wayne’s mansion and even an asylum - all in perfect proportion and in a way that will leave you gasping.

For all the magnificent effects and costumes, there’s also a strong story underpinning the whole thing which was quite a surprise.

It remains faithful to the original Batman comic and all the Caped Crusader’s arch enemies are there.

The Joker is clearly the star baddie but one that will leave younger members of the audience a little unsure was the genuinely frightening Scarecrow.

The cast is made up of circus performers and acrobats and they fly high into the roof space and drop down from the ceiling.

There’s magic, music and a fair amount of humour along the way.

Some of the fight seems appeared a little over-rehearsed on opening night and Batman appeared a little out of puff when he polished off the villains, not what you’d expect from a superhero.

But that didn’t detract from the overall show.

The biggest cheer of the night was reserved for the Batmobile, designed by Formula One guru Gordon Murray.

You don’t have to be a comic nerd to appreciate what’s happening around you.

But keep your eyes open. There’s so much happening it’s easy to get overwhelmed by it.

In the words of the old theatre impressarios, “you ain’t seen nothing yet!”

* Batman Live runs until Sunday. Details from the box office on 0844 847 8000.