The New Theatre’s crystal ball has obviously been working well: with Chiltern Railways’ new service to Marylebone recently given the green light, and electrification of the Paddington route on the horizon, this is a topical moment to bring back Andrew Lloyd Webber’s skating railway musical. No wonder glittering red Electra (Mykal Rand) gets a huge cheer as he glides on to the stage for the first time, while diesel-powered Greaseball (Jamie Capewell) looks a bit down at heel in comparison. As for the international train races that form the core of the story, ironic laughter greeted a bossy announcement that the British entry had been disqualified – for being late.

Billed as a “completely updated” production, Starlight boasts the latest in LED multi-colour lighting technology and digital wizardry – including huge screens at the back of the set which display impressionistic railway scenes (designer, John Napier). Incidentally lighting designer Nick Richings frequently shines bright lights straight at the audience, so if that’s worrying, take your own shades to add to the 3D specs you will be handed on arrival. The 3D film sequences used during the train races have been updated too, but they still didn’t pin me to the back of my seat.

When Arlene Phillips choreographed the show back in 1984, the skaters reached speeds of 40mph hurtling round London’s Apollo Victoria. That spectacle has long since gone, as has the near-vertical, death-defying skating wall at the back of the stage. Instead, two rather more modest ramps are wheeled on from time to time, giving the skaters at least some opportunities for spectacular flips and handstands. But Arlene, who is now director as well as choreographer, concentrates mainly on tight-knit, slower routines. The result is maybe a tad less downright thrilling, but the mix of precision footwork and skate control remains gobsmacking, especially when it’s as well executed as it is here. The final number Light at the End of the Tunnel is sensational.

On the musical front, Witney-born-and-bred musical director Dave Rose and his band punch out the rhythms with gusto, while also giving sympathetic backing to ballads such as Make Up My Heart, which is beautifully delivered by Amanda Coutts. But the real “ahhh” moment comes when neglected Rusty the steam engine (Kristofer Harding, in a most engaging performance) finally triumphs over all modern technology.

FOUR STARS Until December 29 Tickets: 0844 871 3020 or atg.tickets.com/oxford