The Common Pursuit - TNT

Like much of his work, this sophisticated, bittersweet comedy by Cambridge educated Simon Gray draws heavily on his own experiences among the chattering classes. Written in 1984, it follows a select group of literary-minded individuals – five men, one woman - for almost two decades from the setting up of a highbrow magazine in their idealistic student days through births, marriages, deaths and disillusionment.The play itself still reveals a stinging, caustic wit and the sad cynicism of experience and (even though Fiona Laird's production doesn't always hit home) is well worth reviving. Somewhat unconvincing as undergraduates, the cast becomes more persuasive as the characters mature – media-hungry, chain-smoking Nick; philandering, light-weight academic Peter; decent, self-effacing Martin; elitist editor Stuart and his girlfriend Marigold.Best of all is James Dreyfus's gay Humphry. Fiercely intelligent and too shrewd for his own comfort, his withering expression reveals exactly what he feels about his contemporaries – and, painfully, himself.
Menier Chocolate Factory, 53 Southwark Street, SE1. (020-7907 7060). Tickets £22.50 (meal deals available). Until July 20.