After a dramatic and noisy beginning, most of the audience - bar a few hysterical teenagers - are able to settle down to enjoy John Clifford's superior adaptation of this dark Dickens classic.

From beginning to end, this is a pleasure to watch. Neil Murray's direction and design make full use of the space.

Nothing is extraneous, from the set with its cleverly designated zones, used to great effect for different acts, to the performers who reinvent their "resting" moments by transforming into prop-people. The washing line scene in particular is a touch of genius.

Northern Stage, an ensemble company well acquainted with the varied challenges of physical theatre, work together seamlessly to produce a unified production which oozes class.

It's never easy to adapt a work which relies heavily on detailed characterisation. Here it not only succeeds but excels. Dickens' creations are vibrantly brought to life through innovative stage techniques such as combined narration, flashbacks and otherworldly, dreamlike sequences.

Mixed media, by way of huge cinematic backdrops, music and audio magnification, are used to impressive effect to present a brooding tale of aspiration, loss and unrequited love.

The giant images of gallows are particularly haunting, as is the ghostly, tormented figure of Miss Havisham, evocatively played by Sue Maund.

Her eventual pyrotechnic demise leaves a lasting impression as projected flames envelop a torched curtain of gauze.

It's rare to get an opportunity to see a production this visually stunning and intensely performed - don't miss it.