****

Billed as a classic comedy, Relatively Speaking has a darker side. It tells a tale of empty marriages, betrayal and selfishness.

The play, which asks some awkward questions about relationships and double standards, was first staged in 1967 and propelled Alan Ayckbourn into the spotlight.

The plot revolves around numerous crossed wires and misunderstandings that constantly threaten to cast a light on past infidelities and indiscretions.

Matters start to unravel when Ginny – deftly played by Josephine Timms – tells her lover, Greg, that she is going to the country to visit her parents when she is in fact visiting her married lover to end their relationship.

Unfortunately Greg crashes the party, determined to ask for Ginny’s parents for her hand in marriage.

To avoid discovery, Ginny and her older married lover, Philip played by Robert Powell, go along with the pretence that they are father and daughter.

The audience is kept in stitches as they tread a tightrope between fooling their other halves and letting the cat out of the bag.

Anthony Eden is outstanding as the young infatuated Greg – battling his suspicions about his lover’s behaviour. Liza Goddard is delightful as the betrayed wife seemingly oblivious to the obvious.

A slick performance all round.