Gang wars with balletic grace

On the Waterfront ****PleasanceON THE Waterfront is a beautifully realised production of the story first told in the 1954 multi-Oscar-winning film of the same name featuring Marlon Brando.

By The Newsroom

Published 13th Aug 2008, 01:00 BST

This stylish and stylised version of the story captures all the elegance of the original film while still making the story feel wholly relevant today.

Steven Berkoff's production uses a stark stage and a monochrome palette to capture the bleak futility of these men's existence. It also gives a striking cinematic quality.

The strong cast make a brilliant ensemble, welcoming and menacing by turns. Simon Merrells is thrillingly convincing as Terry, the boxer turned bum, caught in the grip of a system he has fallen into and increasingly frustrated as he tries to find a way out.

John Forgeham is chilling as Johnny Friendly, turning with alarming speed from cheerful companionship to furious rage. Coral Beed is a poignant Edie, captivated despite her best intentions by the defiant contender.

This is a gripping production of this classic tale. Berkoff's direction captures all of the animalistic camaraderie of gang warfare but with an extraordinary balletic grace.

Until August 25