The theatre is often used as a vehicle for tales of mystery, intrigue and derring-do, great flights of fancy that tickle the imagination and scintillate the senses. But sometimes the best stories are those with a firm grounding in reality, but which are no less extraordinary.

The Winslow Boy is one such tale, adapted from true events by Terrance Rattigan. First published in 1946, it follows the journey of young naval cadet, Ronnie Winslow, as he is first falsely accused of stealing a five shilling postal order, then expelled from his academy.

Incensed by this miscarriage of justice, his father Arthur embarks on a crusade to clear his son's name and see 'right be done'. In this he is ably assisted by his politically astute daughter, Catherine, and superstar barrister Sir Roger Moreton.

Throughout there are ups and downs, twists and turns, with great care shown to the turmoil and sacrifice that the family must face in their pursuit. All suffer from loss, however a few larger plot points fade away in later acts in order to maintain the momentum as the pace ramps up with major developments.

Regardless, this is a supremely well-acted show, with Aden Gillett in particular making a strong showing as Arthur, and Dorothea Myer-Bennet playing Catherine with steel and wit in equal measure. Props too must be given to the set design, which – for an Edwardian drawing room – proves to be versatile and affecting as a backdrop for the lives of the Winslows.

This is not a show to be missed.

The Winslow Boy runs at the Theatre Royal Bath until Saturday, March 10.