Muchmuchmore have a distinguished fringe history, most recently with the excellent ‘The Penelopiad’, so I was keen to see their take on William Golding’s classic novel. Much adapted for stage and film, its considerable challenge is met with confidence by the young cast. The book’s central theme, the conflict between civil order and lust for power, is presented with clarity and sometimes terrifying force. So, likewise, is the speed with which superstition overtakes rationality, leading to conflict and chaos. These darkly drawn issues remain as relevant today as when the book was written. Some of the initial dialogue felt a trice forced, but the production swiftly moves to generate real menace through the physical theatre at which this company excels.

theSpaceTriplex, until 24 Aug.
tw rating 4/5 | [Alan Cranston]