JANE Wenham, The Witch of Walkern, an atmospheric drama by BAFTA-winning writer Rebecca Lenkiewicz, brings superstition, fear and tragedy to the stage of Salisbury Playhouse, in a brilliant touring production, set in 1712.

This co-production by Out of Joint, Watford Palace Theatre and Arcola Theatre is set in a Hertfordshire village where accusations of witchcraft weave an insidious web of terror that engulfs innocent lives.

Ria Parry directs a cast of eight; the designer is James Button; lighting design is by Richard Howell. The immediacy of the action is enhanced by evocative music, composed by Max Pappenheim, who designed the startling, strident sound.

A stark set, on which the gibbet looms menacingly, depicts an era when wise herbalists were condemned to appalling abuse.

Their desolation is depicted in the grey landscape and the intransigence of their persecutors. The torment of the innocent is expressed in fine dramatic performances by the excellent cast.

Amanda Bellamy gives a stellar performance as Jane Wenham, who was reprieved by Queen Anne after being condemned in one of England's of the last witchcraft trials in England.

Hannah Hutch is the confused, unhappy Ann Thorn, whose mother has been executed as a witch. Tim Delap is the vigilante vicar, Samuel Crane, whose intolerance is tempered by David Acton’s calm stance as a clergyman who does not believe in witches.

Judith Cole, Andrew Macklin, Rachel Sanders and Cat Simmons complete the outstanding cast.

The first night audience at Salisbury was treated to a talk-out after the show, with the actors and director Ria Parry, who described their close co-operation with the writer, and the play’s searing modern relevance. Irrational prejudices and religious fanaticism still exist. Jane Wenham’s life was saved, but at a cost to her lifestyle. Lenkiewicz has used an old framework to tell a very modern story.

STELLA TAYLOR