SET during the Second World War, Dennis Potter’s dark comic-drama encapsulates (through adults playing children) a world of innocence that comes tumbling down in the most traumatic of circumstances.

Performed before a predominantly student-audience, this was an outstanding production of physical theatre. It is difficult to single out individual performances from such a strong, committed ensemble production; all portrayed strong characterisations, and unrestrained enthusiasm, energy and often cruelty of young children, along with frequently emotional vulnerability.

However, Francesca McCrohon was unfalteringly first-rate as feisty tomboy Audrey, while Tony Dart combined excellent direction – ensuring sharp pace of both dialogue and action – while perfectly capturing the essence of cowardly schoolboy bully, Peter.

Phill Cottrill – on stage for the entire play – was exceptional in the way that his character flowed seamlessly between observer and central character (a brilliant directorial tool to make an originally minor character the focus of the play).

Anne Waggott