AN ambitious choice, The Clink showcased Malvern Theatre Players' fine acting, creative set design and imaginative costumes.

The play is a tale of plotting and political corruption set in 17th Century London.

Queen Elizabeth I is dying and her advisors eagerly await her choice of successor, all keen to be in power for the new monarch's reign.

Scheming Warburton emerges triumphant from the power struggle by disposing of his rivals, who end up murdered or behind bars in 'The Clink'.

Fool Lucius Bodkin gets caught up in the corruption, although he is innocent.

Nick Hurt, who plays him, gives a great performance as the stand-up comedian who emerges as the play's wisest character and holds the fast-paced storyline together.

His talk with his resurrected father (John Mosedale) in a graveyard is hilarious.

Nigel Turner is convincing as conniving Warburton and Fran Buckland gives a stand-out performance as his daughter Beatrice, who develops a lust for blood as she is caught up in plotting.

Shirley Bradley plays Warburton's slave Zanda, who is willing to commit crimes in exchange for freedom, brilliantly.

Mention must also go to J J Smith, in a duel of insults with Beatrice, playing her ill-fated suitor Gridling, Mike Fray as the alchemist John Butler, Barry Page as the Queen's advisor Frobisher, Jim Howden as the Bishop and Andrew Howie as Lucius Bodkin's brother, Thomas.

Dianne Lloyd wonderfully plays the dying Elizabeth, a complicated character both dignified and pathetic.

The Clink is overlong and a little difficult to follow but it is a visually appealing, well-acted production. It runs until tomorrow (Satur-day). For tickets call 01684 892277. Jo Lafferty