FOR many years, the Reformation was just something that happened in the history books.

But Hilary Mantel’s Booker Prize-winning novels have brought that time of upheaval into sharp focus, revealing the machinations of Thomas Cromwell which brought about the revolution in the Church.

Where Late The Sweet Birds Sang examines one abbey caught in the middle, as a pair of well-meaning monks try to save their holy relic and their skins, while the abbot’s uncouth brother takes advantage of the political situation.

David Brett is stunning in a series of roles – able to move from the blundering innocent Brother Stephen to pious Father Prior, boorish Sir Richard Gascoigne and fearsome Doctor Layton with just one look.

John Burrows, who also wrote the play, is a great comic foil, with his Father Abbot who refuses to see the danger coming a particular stand-out.

The first half of the play is packed with knockabout humour, multiple character changes and farcical situations. As the darkness gathers around the abbey in the second half the tone alters significantly and the pace slows, losing some of the initial energy.

With just a little judicious editing this good production could be turned into a great play – but it is still an entertaining and thought-provoking evening.