THE triumph of mercy over strict justice was Shakespeare's message in Measure for Measure.

The Royal Shakespeare Company's production showed clearly on the opening night last Friday that no man is himself so free from error as to be entitled to deal out justice to another.

Sean Holmes,with a continental approach set at the turn of the century, created by his direction a strangely familiar feel to the play, and some excellent performances filled out what could have been, at times, a puzzling mix of style.

Bespectacled Angelo, played by Daniel Evans struck just the right mood for the blame-free zealot, who falls to the temptation of beautiful Isobella played by Emma Fielding.

She was outstanding as the blameless virgin, unstained by unholy thought. Her face, at the end ,when the Duke offered her his all, was a picture, but not one of acceptance .

This is a thoroughly enjoyable production,and is beautifully lit. I especially liked the light falling across the wall,and the high lit nunnery windows.

There is a highly talented cast, who can even cope with twisted barbed-wire. This is a production not to be missed.

REVIEW BY MARTIN SMITH