The Real Thing **** TNT

Playwright Tom Stoppard first got personal with this domestic drama about marriage, infidelity and living with an actress – all things he knew more than a little about – in 1982.

Using a clever “play within a play” structure, which finally comes full circle, he lays bare the emotions which successful dramatist Henry conceals behind his articulate wit.

It’s a fine revival, and is both a paean to the dexterous use of language and a dissection of what it means to be in love.

Old Vic, SE1 8NB Waterloo oldvictheatre.com Until Jun 5. £20-£47