No Knowing: Stephen Joseph Theatre, Scarborough

HERE'S a little Christmas present from Alan Ayckbourn. It's not big and shiny and glittery, and doesn't shout from the rooftops, but as you'd expect from the prolific Mr Ayckbourn this is a little gem in a Christmas season where wit and drama are rejected in favour of cross-dressing, thigh-slapping and over-the-top histrionics.

Ayckbourn's play – he's now authored 80-plus of them – is playful and knowing and has added depth for anyone married 40-odd years who will recognise the dilemmas of a long-running marriage. Arthur and Elspeth are celebrating four decades of wedded bliss although each has a secret (which I won't spoil the fun by revealing) that sheds a different light on their relationship.

The two acts – or "a comedy of two halves" as the publicity has it – last a relatively brief, but emotionally packed 35 minutes as the masterful Sir Alan offers a portrait of a marriage not exactly on the rocks but reaching a few bumpy patches.

The first act belongs to Arthur as son Nigel reveals his mother's secret life, while the second act has Elspeth learning about her husband's extra-marital affair. Both revelations are unexpected and some may regret that Ayckbourn doesn't indulge in a third act to explore further the aftermath of these marital bombshells. The setting may be Christmas, but the festive spirit is stretched to breaking point.

Ayckbourn "old hands" Jacqueline King and Russell Dixon, along with Laura Matthews (daughter Alison) and Bill Champion (son Nigel) offer immaculate performances as the family quartet.

* Runs until December 24. Box Office: 01723-370541 or sjt.uk.com

Steve Pratt