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COSTUME drama is often reassuring in a world of theatre where the senses seem always assaulted by strong language, violence and explicit sex scenes.

Pride and Prejudice offers just such a reassurance as a gentle drama adapted from Jane Austen's novel but remaining faithful to the original romantic comedy.

The television serialisation of the story was a huge success with viewers and the stage production comes off just as well benefiting from strong characters well portrayed.

Jane Robbins plays the feisty Elizabeth Bennet, one of five sisters in a well-to-do family who are all seeking good marriages.

The eligible bachelor Mr Bingley, played by Alistair Robins, moves in next door and introduces his equally eligible but dour friend, Mr Darcy played by James Innes-Smith.

All leading characters are performed well but it is the supporting roles of the social climber Mrs Bennet, played by Pip Hinton, and the subservient Rev Collins played by David Westbrook who steal the show.