Gone to Earth - The Nuffield, Southampton.

IF THE idea of 'modern' theatre sends a shiver down your spine, it's time for you to think again.

Shared Experience theatre company combine modern techniques, including dance and physical theatre, a bold set and an old story to stunning effect in Gone to Earth.

The play, which bears a certain resemblance to Tess of the d'Urbervilles, is based on Mary Webb's novel, published in 1917.

It tells the story of an uneducated, naive young woman, Hazel, who is unfortunate enough to be desired by two very different men.

One is driven by his lust for her and the other by his desire to protect her innocence - but together they destroy her.

Gone to Earth features some fantastic acting, particularly from Natalia Tena as Hazel, in a role which, if acted badly, would have been excruciating.

A moving, unconventional and thought-provoking play, this is well worth seeing.

It runs until Saturday.