AT THE heart of Ben Brown's play performed by the professional Esk Valley Theatre company is the serious subject of suicide – but it is a comedy with humour that will appeal to many.

Life is so Peculiar is the introductory song and there is pleasing wordplay for a knowing audience.

The world of David Freeman (Bill Champion) is academia – an introverted, wood-panelled existence where the written word reigns supreme. He rarely goes out and, according to his ex-wife, cares little for others.

He is bored with life, his ennui only abating when in animated talk about his latest book, Matters of Life and Death. The philosophy professor believes people (but not dogs) should be allowed to determine the time of their exit – a topical subject.

Few characters in his world care about him, though.

The nauseatingly lecherous English academic Ronnie (a convincing David Chafer) is redeemed only by the honesty of his need for David’s friendship. Downtrodden librarian Margaret (movingly played by Alison Darling) and American academic Laura (Clara Perez) display grinning enthusiasm in philosophical discussions with him as well as admitting to erotic strategies.

Sexual and physical references in the script and in Mark Stratton’s direction add to the humour.

Journalist Joanna (an ex-Goth, nice touch for the Whitby area) is played cleverly by Rachel Barry, blending sarcasm, outspokenness and contrition in the search for a good story.

The second act develops ideas around David’s suicide attempts and is the most interesting part of the play. An illustration of justified belief about sheep and dogs will stay with me, and ideas from Kant, Plato, Socrates and Freud are all here.

Tom Bevan brings sincerity to the role of the chaplain who believes in life (and also plays the hapless electrician). New life trumps everything. The ending is bittersweet.

The play runs until August 28 with evening performances and Tuesday and Thursday matinees; for tickets, contact the box office on 01947 897587.

Emily Thwaite