FROM the songs of the sirens, through the whirlpools of Charybdis, the cave of Cyclops and the House of the Dead, the Odyssey is one of the world's best- known and well-loved adventure tales.

It is also the love story of Odysseus and Penelope, whose faltering, human faith in each other battles to survive through 12 long years of absence.

When Odysseus returns home from the Trojan Wars, avoiding the traps and guiles of the gods, he finds his wife very nearly betrothed to another man, and his son murderous with rage.

This is a very physical production that uses live music, masks, mime and puppetry to bring the story to life.

Fast-paced, funny and at times very touching, this is an innovative retelling in Icon Theatre's distinctive, engaging style.

Icon Theatre was founded in 2002 to produce physical theatre and new writing using mask, mime and clowning to create a bold contemporary feel.

With a flair for circus skills and mask work, director Nancy Hirst has also worked on shows for the Young Vic, The Soho Theatre and Opera North.

The Odyssey comes to the Blake Theatre, Monmouth, on Friday, May 5, at 7.30pm.

Tickets are £12, concessions £8 on 01600 719401.