Your reviews: On the Waterfront, The Theatre Royal, Haymarket *****

Adapted from the multi Oscar-winning film, On the Waterfront, which starred Marlon Brando, this Steven Berkoff-directed theatrical gem is currently playing at The Theatre Royal, Haymarket.

On the Waterfront is set in a time where the New York docks were run by gangsters, bullying and intimidating not just the workers, but their families.

If it really was like this, it must have been terrible. This production is low on scenery but the most disciplined cast you’ll find anywhere on the West End.

There is a lot of slow motion movement here - which at first is a little odd - but as this masterpiece reaches its many climaxes this device just adds to the raw emotion of what you’re witnessing.

Berkoff also plays union boss Johnny English with a menacing madness - as you would expect if you know Berkoff.

The leading couple, Simon Merrells as Terry Malloy and Bryony Afferson as Edie are just sensational - even more so when you realise Miss Afferson has only recently replaced former Edie, Coral Beed.

Interesting movie fact - Frank Sinatra had already accepted the lead role as Terry Malloy - but then Brando came along. Perhaps he made Ol’ Blue Eyes an offer he couldn't refuse...or was that another film?

While this could never be adapted as a musical, the moody jazz/funk type music of the day is expertly played throughout by Mark Glentworth.

This evokes much melancholy and sadness; it will stay with you for hours after. At times in the second half, you can almost smell the fog off the Hudson River.

Witnessing productions like this makes me realise how much run of the mill theatre I have seen over the years. I walked home barefoot on Tuesday night last week as both my shoes and socks were knocked off after this. On the Waterfront is there until the end of April - don't say you weren't “advised”...know what I mean?

On the Waterfront runs at The Theatre Royal, Haymarket, London until April 25. 0845 481 1870.