The School For Scandal, Viaduct Theatre, Halifax

Rutter must have been torn as to whether to play the uptight Sir Peter Teazle, driven to his wits' end by his wily young wife - her insouciance captured perfectly by Sally Carman - or to penetrate the heart of the ridiculous comic plot as wealthy Sir Oliver Surface. Rutter chose Teazle and, particularly in the scenes with his wife, portrays him rather gravely, suggesting the emotional core beneath their superficial marital jousting. Mike Burns relishes the role of Sir Oliver, duping his nephews with good humour and delivering his horrified asides to the audience with a beguiling naturalness.

Sheridan's timeless picture of manners and morals is given a satirical edge in Jessica Worrall's costumes, inspired by the cartoons and caricatures of James Gillray. Extravagant figures of fun, full of hot air and brimming with confidence in their scandal-mongering, the cast conveys an exuberant sense of fun. Heartily spoken in Northern accents, the backbiting, the glittering gibes and quick-fire jests come across with excellent comic timing.

Rutter's direction spins the tapestry of deceit to dizzy heights, each new twist in the tale linked by instrumental interludes provided in impromptu fashion by the actors. It's a world that, with its brilliant gossip scenes, absurd hypocrisy and stylised relationships, comes brilliantly alive. Performed with gusto, it's great fun and when everyone is "steady to his text" it will be even better.

Touring to 30 November (www.northern-broadsides.co.uk)