Director Philip Wilson’s ambitious, superbly costumed revival of The Picture, by Salisbury-born 17th century dramatist Philip Massinger, portrays conflict, devotion and intrigue.

An imaginative set, fine effects and an accomplished cast of 12 ensure a memorable experience.

A few playgoers, who apparently found the first half too slow, unwisely left in the interval. The title refers to a magical picture of Sophia (the lovely Olivia Grant) that is cherished by her husband Mathias as he goes off to fight for Hungary against the Turks.

Simon Harrison, as Mathias, is told by the portrait’s originator, Julio Baptista, that if, in his absence, Sophia is assailed by seducers, the picture will turn yellow, and if she succumbs, it will go black.

Mathia’s is propositioned by royalty when he is feted at Court as a battle hero. He rebukes the unprincipled Queen (played excellently by Teresa Banham). Meanwhile, Christopher Logan and Duncan Wisbey as Ricardo and Ubaldo, wild courtiers, test Sophia’s fidelity with false tales of Mathias’ unfaithfulness.

The deceivers’ downfall and subsequent piteous plight, and the antics of Russell Layton and Denise Hoey as servant and maid to Mathias and Sophia, are sparkling comic gems in this worthy revival.