Set over one summer in 1936, this Brian Friel drama takes us into the home of the Mundy family – five sisters, none married but one of whom, Christina, has a young son, Michael, through whose eyes the tale is told.

Initially we see them scratching out a living, dancing to the radio and going about the daily chores but we soon realise that under the surface the women are living in quiet desperation.

The arrival of their missionary brother Jack back from Africa in disgrace is the pivotal event which tips the balance and sends the family into free-fall.

Despite the inherent sadness in this piece there is also plenty of warmth, companionship and love which makes their eventual disintegration all the more harrowing.

Directed by Tamara Harvey with a detailed set by Colin Richmond this is a snapshot of a time gone by and of a family on the edge.

Rating: 4/5