When Colchester’s Protocol Theatre group set their stall out to showcase the professional talent that was available in the town, they obviously knew what they were doing.

Following a triumphant production of The View From A Bridge last year, they’ve opted for a more modern examination of relationships with Nina Raine’s Rabbit.

Set in a bar where a group of obnoxious late 20-somethings are putting the worlds to rights, what’s interesting about this play is the juxtaposition as lead Bella deals with the imminent death of her father.

I’m not convinced on the strength of the play itself - but then I’m not a 20-something city worker anymore - but in terms of direction and acting, this is another feather in the company’s cap.

Both Yasmin Jafri, as the troubled Bella, and Tim Freeman as her dad, are excellent, while Charlotte Luxford, Chris Anderson, Richard Conrad and Zoe Biles lend, in varying degrees, humourous and emotional support. With great direction by Robbie Taylor Hunt, I can’t wait for the next one.

NEIL D’ARCY-JONES