Theatre does not get much more cutting edge than this. Set in a women's prison, Compact Failure explores the relationships between three inmates and their families.

Playwright Jennifer Farmer spent six months researching at HMP Send.

So far, so avant-garde. But cutting edge need not mean abstruse. On the contrary, the writing is fresh, the set inspired and the acting excellent.

Lonely Chelle is isolated and friendless in HMP Kenton. The arrival of 26-year-old Ruthie brings hope, and together the two confront - and finally overcome - their difficult pasts. Scheming Maya, meanwhile, fails to exorcise her own ghosts, and ends the play right back where she started.

All three actresses deliver tremendous performances. Newcomer Claire-Louise Cordwell is utterly convincing as streetwise Ruthie; Lorna Gayle's Chelle is comic but never laughable; Sharlene Whyte's Maya flits between menacing and pitiable.

Each actress also plays other characters, including prison guards. The change in costume and attitude, often made in seconds, is seamless.

For this, credit must go to director Sarah Esdaile, but also to Ti Green's very effective set. It is sharp, witty stuff, entertaining, thought-provoking and ultimately inspiring.

Updated: 11:09 Wednesday, October 27, 2004