A novel take on gothic Gormenghast

Suspension of disbelief is pushed to its limits in this revival of David Glass's adaptation of Mervyn Peake's trilogy: Titus Groan, Gormenghast and Titus Alone.

Glass's production portrays a fantastical Gothic world that nevertheless makes clear how little the conflict between social convention and progress have changed since the novels' publication 60 years ago. Living within the walls of Gormenghast Castle, the Groan family are desperately trying to uphold age-old rituals and traditions, continually battling against threats to their delicately balanced existence.

Peake's poetic prose and surreal events are brought to life with resourceful economy, rather than full literal glory. Gormenghast itself is never visible: moody lighting, swirls of smoke, well-timed sound effects and John Eacott's thunderous score evoke a magical, creaking place of mind-boggling proportions.

The cast's impressive physicality breathes life into Gormenghast's alternative inhabitants - an endearing cross between The Addams Family and decaying Dickensian aristocracy. The women in particular shine: Elisa de Grey portrays an elegantly disturbed Fuchsia with mesmerising skill, while Sally Mortemore embodies batty Gertrude's eccentricity and iron fist rule with aplomb.

Sadly, some of the novels' darker levels have been forsaken for an emphasis on humour and nuances of character are occasionally lost. But what this production occasionally lacks in finesse, it makes up for with bucket loads of charm, romance and a real sense of fantasy.

Until Apr 15, BAC, 176 Lavender Hill SW11, Tue to Sat

7.30pm, Sun 5.30pm, Sat mat Apr 14 2.30pm (no perf Apr 6 to

9), £15, £8 concs, Tue pay what you can. Tel: 020 7223 2223. www.bac.org.uk Rail: Clapham Junction

Gormenghast
Battersea Arts Centre
Lavender Hill, SW11 5TN