Ghost city comes to life

The 'city' of Gary Owen's latest urban salvo is Cardiff, although it could be a modern-day anywhere.

Far from being populated by ghosts, though, it's presented as a place that's crackling with life.

Starting at 6am, with a DJ unravelling on air we are shown 25 scenarios across one day: a steward on a train tries in vain to raise a smile; a teacher is outsmarted by a nine-year-old pupil; a bored newspaper sub-editor decides to terrorise a letterwriter; a taxi driver admits to sleeping with his girlfriend's younger sister.

These are snapshots of lives lived by lost souls, where the characters search for something just out of reach, whether it be drugs, sex, happiness or just a simple connection.

Director Simon Harris keeps the staging stark, emphasising the confessional nature of the speeches. They are all delivered with brio by the four actors, who let the tough, sparkling humour of Owen's writing shine through despite the fact there's not much joy on offer.

It's hard to sustain a sense of punchiness, but this is, nonetheless, a compelling performance of a spiky piece of theatre.

Until Jul 10, Arcola Theatre, 27 Arcola Street E8, Mon to Sat 8pm, £10, £6 concs, Tue pay what you can. Tel: 020 7503 1646. Rail: Dalston Kingsland

Ghost City