This was a powerful, raw performance that inspired shivers down my spine. Not for the faint-hearted, the play centers on Sherica, a prostitute; Natalie, her oblivious but troubled sister; and Michael, her teacher, Sherica’s client and self-confessed Guardian-reader. A story of paranoia, blackmail and unsettling realisations, the actors are relentless, injecting every moment with intensity, energy and abrasive humour. The play is constructed of several short scenes with abrupt changes that keep the momentum up. Although lacking a much-needed soft edge, the outstanding performances by Ruth Middleton and Nicola Stebbings more than make up for this. The play takes a look at the morality of man, and with its inconclusive ending, leaves a lingering, unnerving chill.

Paradise In The Vault, 8 – 29 Aug (not 15, 22), 9.15pm (10.15pm), £10.00, fpp298.
tw rating 4/5
[jb]