A POWERFUL new drama is delighting audiences at Ipswich's New Wolsey Theatre.Angel House follows the fortunes of the Vincent family as they struggle to cope with life on a west London housing estate.

A POWERFUL new drama is delighting audiences at Ipswich's New Wolsey Theatre.

Angel House follows the fortunes of the Vincent family as they struggle to cope with life on a west London housing estate.

Expertly directed by Paulette Randall, the play tells a story of two brothers living very different and contradictory lives.

Exploring the dynamics of brotherly love and making a comment on the West Indian experience of inner city life, this is a challenging story with much to say.

Quality acting and clever set design by Libby Watson creates atmosphere and adds to the tension.

Homosexuality, race, class, money, drugs, sibling rivalry, generational conflict are some of the themes and issues touched upon in this compelling and moving production.

A first half sets the scene for a second half in which the play really gets going gripping the audience with powerful discourse and at times brutal emotional frankness.

Claire Benedict as Jean plays her part with finesse perfectly capturing the matriarchal role and the inner emotions of human frailty.

A strong cast included a number of familiar faces such as Channel 4's Richard Blackwood, EastEnders' Mark Monero and Joseph Kpobie also of EastEnders fame.

A cleverly directed piece with a good blend of pace and poignancy this is another triumph for Paulette Randall and a promising start to the New Wolsey's Spring programme.

Running until February 9 and produced by Eclipse theatre this is a play that's well worth making the effort for on these cold winter nights.

JAMES MARSTON