ANYONE wanting an evening of light entertainment had probably better steer clear of this play, which runs at The Rose until Saturday.

It is challenging, for cast and audiences alike, and full attention is required throughout - but as Esme Allen might argue, that's the way theatre should be.

The Nonentities tackled this lengthy four-act play, which spans 16 years, with some aplomb. Pamela Meredith's Esme was the undoubted highlight, all the more of a feat when you consider Dame Judy Dench almost surrendered the role through difficulties in learning it in the West End.

A relationships play, it focuses mainly on the interaction between Esme and her daughter Amy (Rachel Duncan) but takes in a whole range of ideas that could occupy an earnest sixth former well into a 3,000 word essay.

Tim Williams' portrayal of Amy's idealistic and ambitious boyfriend Dominic Tyghe certainly held the attention and he was suitably edgy - although his tendency for making the most of his more dramatic speeches was ironic, given his character's apparent dislike for the booming pomposity of the theatre world.

And a special mention for Dennis Beasley, whose style suited his character, Esme's devoted but mostly drunken would-be husband and the man who eventually sparks her downfall.

Keep an eye out for the bizarre final scene - and answers on a postcard if you have any idea what it's about.

As I said, this is not light viewing. But it's pretty good theatre. AMD