The transformation of Salisbury Playhouse for an in-the-round production of Alan Ayckbourn's classic Bedroom Farce is a technical triumph. The remarkable set features three very different bedrooms, in the homes of three very different couples.

Delia (Penelope Beaumont) and Ernest (Graham Seed) are preparing for their annual visit to a restaurant, to celebrate their wedding anniversary. Malcolm (Niall Costigan) and Kate (Eleanor), who have just moved, are about to host a housewarming party. In the third bedroom, Nick (David Partridge) disgruntled at being laid low with a bad back, sees his wife Jan (Emily Wachter) leave on her own for the party.

Other guests include Delia's and Ernest’s son Trevor (Mawgan Gyles) and his tremulous wife Susannah (Emma Noakes), whose rocky marriage survives constant upsets. .

The play, set in 1975, reflects the era’s coyness about personal relationships, and even a reluctance to enunciate a word that is so well used today. Delia, in an unsought chat with her daughter-in-law, recalls her own mother's advice: “If S.E.X. rears its ugly head, close your eyes before you see the rest of it!”

The production, superbly directed by Gareth Machin, is a total delight, in which a catalogue of disasters unfolds hilariously.

As Ernest, Graham Seed, (whose demise from his role of Nigel Pargetter in the Archers was widely lamented), is charmingly vague and obliging. He and Penelope Beaumont have some wonderful dialogue and a cosily tranquil bedtime snack – disrupted by a desperate Susannah, while Trevor seeks refuge elsewhere.

Malcolm's inept attempt to assemble flat-pack furniture (his housewarming present to Kate) is doomed from the start. Meanwhile Nick bellows and complains, Jan strives in vain to be helpful, and in all three bedrooms chaos reigns.

Ayckbourn’s shrewd perception of human nature enables audiences to identify with familiar traits. The anxiety, regret and frustration of his characters is counterbalanced brilliantly by their kindness, understanding and affection.

The excellent cast, designer Tom Rogers and the skilful creative and production team ensure memorable entertainment,