Platonov, first of three early Chekhov plays presented under the heading Young Chekhov is played by a strong ensemble company.

His plays are usually billed as comedies but often fall short on hilarity.

There is no shortage in this production which borders, to good effect, on the side of farce.

And this must be due to the script which David Hare has written from a literal translation of the original.

It is also due to James McArdle’s inspired performance of the title role.

Platonov is a hopeless case –often drunk, married but irresistible to women, three of whom currently pursue him.

His vacillation between remaining faithful to his wife and his love entanglements is hilarious.

He comes across as a little boy unable to realise his effect on others. McArdle’s bewildered facial play is sheer delight.

There is quality acting throughout.

Nina Sosanya, Sarah Twomey and Olivia Vinall all give strong contrasting performances as his pursuers whilst Des McAleer is quite chilling as the sinister Osip, would be assassin.

Amidst all the comedy are plenty of serious moments and high tension.

The dramatic end to Act One will ensure that anyone foolish enough to doze off will be rudely awoken.

Five stars