RARELY does a production come together so perfectly as the latest offering from the Harlequin Players - an unusual, modern, whimsical romantic comedy.

The cast included only three actors, but their acting was assured, delightful and utterly beguiling from start to finish. In short the plot involved the ups and downs of an affair between an attractive young couple called Helen and Jools.

Curiously their affair is witnessed by a series of comical characters, all played by the same actor. Described briefly like this the plot may seem utterly ridiculous, yet the interpretation was beguiling and entertaining.

Indeed the intentional artificiality of the production added to its charm and entertainment value.

The settings were suggested by a series of cubes and boxes transported from place to place and arranged by the actors to create an illusion of different venues. Scene changes were choreographed with judiciously chosen pop music. The theatricality of this enhanced the quirky nature of the play.

In this respect credit must be given to the resourcefulness of background stage staff - Jay Rees (sound); Jon Kerr and John Brotherhood (lighting); Gordon Hamlin (set design and construction); Kim Watts and Caroline Young (stage management).

The standard of acting, in particular by Jo Rayner as Helen, was immensely impressive. She brought out her character's lovable, comical, emotional facets with strength of personality and sensitivity. A stunning performance.

Also impressive was the acting by Matthew Lambert as Jools, the character from a difficult marriage. He too acted with conviction, confidence and subtlety.

The third member of the talented trio, Chris Saunders, provided most of the laughter in this delightful romantic comedy. Playing many roles with a variety of accents and mannerisms he clearly relished the part and exploited its comic potential.

In his first role as director for the Harlequins, Alan Prior can feel justly pleased. An excellent and promising start to a new season of drama.