Gender swapping is standard in Shakespeare's plays but the all-male Propeller Theatre Group take it further in this production.

However, it is easy to stretch the imagination with actors who move effortlessly from solemn tragedy to bawdy slapstick and seem to have great fun along the way.

Richard Clothier is terrifying as the irrationally jealous king Leontes, whose sanity rapidly fragments as he suspects his wife Hermione, played by Simon Scardifield, of infidelity with best friend Polixenes, played handsomely by Vince Leigh.

But it is in the second half that the vigorous physicality of this company truly makes itself felt.

Sixteen years later, Leontes mourns the life he shattered, but banished daughter Perdita, a coy Tam Williams, has been raised in Bohemia, a happy shepherd's daughter.

This gives the cast the excuse for plenty of bawdy humour, energetic dance and comic songs.

All is solemn again in the final scenes. Polixenes returns to the court on the heels of son Florizel, who is in love with Perdita.

Ending with a poignant flourish, this clever, beautiful production breathes new life into Shakespeare's masterpiece.

The Winter's Tale runs tomorrow (Saturday) at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets £12-£18 (students £6) from 01684 892277.

Emilene White