IT'S always dangerous to listen to pre-play hype - if the production lives up to it you are not surprised, and if it does not you are left disappointed.

The truth of this was demonstrated when the Royal National Theatre's version of An Inspector Calls opened at Malvern Theatres on Bank Holiday Monday.

The NT's production has a lot to live up to. It has won more awards than any other play in history since the curtain first went up 11 years ago.

The play's plot follows an enigmatic inspector (Nicholas Day) who interrupts a celebratory dinner party thrown by a well-to-do family.

The tale of woe he has to tell makes them all examine their consciences, and the play's central message that "no man is an island" is made unmistakably clear.

First staged in 1946 but set just before the First World War, the play is very instructive and you are left in no doubt as to the danger of ignoring plight of others.

The production's famous set provided visual drama and the acting was generally convincing, although too much dialogue was shouted. A little more contrast in places may have better maintained the intensity.

Overall, it was entertaining but did not exceed the high standards Festival Theatre regulars often enjoy. It plays until tomorrow (Saturday).

Jon di Paolo