The second of Alan Ayckbourn’s ‘Damsels in Distress’ trilogy is a play where nothing is quite what it seems.

Called upon to tend to a smart apartment, out-of-work actor Rosie Seymore finds herself propositioned by a handsome neighbour who seems convinced she is the owner of the property; something which Rosie plays along to…  the consequences of which lead to the story taking on an altogether different tone; comedy moves to comedy/thriller territory with a nod to Alfred Hitchcock.

Unlike ‘GamePlan’ (reviewed last week) this has a much move even structure to it and provides plenty of laughter amidst the machinations of the plot. Andrew Beckett’s well-appointed, Thames-side apartment set remains and same cast of actors play completely different characters; the trilogy is fast becoming like a little repertory season within the overall season itself.

Laura Mead, as Rosie, is superb – making absolutely everything of the frustrated character (she needs work and a man!) as she embraces the role within the role; her comedy timing is spot on. When the neighbour Sam invites Rosie to help him make gnocchi, you are reminded of a potter’s wheel and the film ‘Ghost’ – it is very funny. Owen Landon brings great charm and a degree of mystery to Sam; is he as perfect as he appears? James Pellow, playing it straight this time, has exactly the right amount of authority, complete with sharp tongue and sharper wit as the mysterious Maurice Whickett and Liv Koplick relishes the chance to showcase her thuggish side as Tracy. Julia Main is hilarious as the ghastly property agent and Claire Louise Amias clearly enjoys herself as the very sinister Edna Stricken. Dominic McChesney provides another gloriously funny cameo as the hopeless ex-SAS soldier, Tommy; the scene where he exercises his muscles as Rosie warms her vocal cords is a joy.

Director, Anton Tweedale, knows exactly what to place in front of the audience and crafts as much from the script and the actors as he can; it works like a dream.

This is a much better play than ‘GamePlan’ and, though not typical Ayckbourn-land, it is very entertaining in its own right. Seeing the first two plays of the trilogy, presented as they were conceived to be, is a developing treat.

The play runs until Saturday, July 22 and tickets are available at www.manorpavilion.com. Next week the Alan Ayckbourn trilogy continues with ‘RolePlay’ from 24-29 July.