CALDERDALE Theatre School chose Frank McGuiness's translation of Berthold Brecht's Cauca-sian Chalk Circle, written in 1944, to celebrate their 40th anniversary.

An ambitious choice, for this sprawling, mocking, deeply moral collage of doubtful identities, class and turf war, legal corruption, political duplicity and religious hypocrisy requires enormous theatrical reserves. For Brecht requires his audience to be critically aware rather than emotionally partisan.

The directors, Frank Brown and Gillie Kerrod, had inspired ideas as to how this production, with its significantly minimalist set and bold lighting, should look and come across, and the brilliant young cast understood their intentions perfectly. Most of them had multiple roles to mirror the confusion navigated by Helen Wright as The Singer, our wise, insightful and wry guide and narrator (and talented violinist).

This was very much a team effort with everyone on the stage focused, disciplined and committed. There were several stand-out performances but handsome James Patrick, initially outstanding as a Corporal, was utterly charismatic in the complex and exacting role of Azdak.

Physical theatre, including striking and original dance moves, pointed up some stunning moments, particularly the simulated fight sequence, immaculately timed, and the collapsing human bridge over which Grusha (shared by Bridget Holtom and Alex Reynolds) makes her escape. The tenderly handled puppets were lifelike and pitifully expressive.

Music by David Bowie, Leonard Cohen and Ry Cooder among others contributed to the uncannily appropriate soundtrack.

This remarkable production runs until Saturday.

• Former members of the theatre school are invited to join a cake and Champagne celebration after tonight's performance to mark the 40th anniversary.