DEATH, destruction, devil worship.

This thrilling adaptation of William Golding’s novel can only be described as a terrifying descent into horror.

From the moment they walk into the theatre, audiences are met with a chilling scene – the tail of an aircraft blown apart, suitcases strewn across the beach of a deserted island, lights still flashing but no-one for them to guide.

Then, out of the wreckage, emerge several smartly dressed schoolboys, the only survivors of a plane crash.

There are initial attempts at civilised discourse, a conch shell used as a mouthpiece allowing the holder to speak freely.

But the notion of a beast breeds fear in the group and puts paid to any idea of a democracy.

Life on the island soon descends into chaotic gang warfare where anything can and does happen – bloodlust, bullying, even a couple of murders.

While the upstanding Ralph and his allies attempt to remain decent, building a fire in the hope of being rescued and looking out for each other, the remainder of the mob, led by controlling Jack, descend into savagery.

The scenes in which they prowl the island armed with spears, smeared with blood and with tribal markings on their faces, chanting like warriors are utterly brilliant and utterly ghastly at the same time.

Unlike the 1954 dystopian novel by William Golding, the play is set in modern day. This works on some levels with mentions of Bear Grylls and Inbetweeners-style banter bringing a touch of humour to proceedings. But the production of a selfie stick and the concern that they won’t be able to Instagram without 3G was unnecessary and distracting.

Last night’s audience, which included many pupils studying the text for their GCSEs, were left spellbound by what was a gripping study of human behaviour.

By the end of two shocking hours, we were grateful for the intervention of the rescue party, who couldn’t come soon enough, and gave the wonderful ensemble a much-deserved rousing reception.

Undeniably disturbing yet absorbing.

LORELEI REDDIN

Lord of the Flies runs until Saturday. Tickets: 023 8071 1811 or visit mayflower.org.uk