AS the saying goes, the old ones are the best.

And at 400-year-old Doctor Faustus — the most famous of Christopher Marlowe’s works - is a fine example.

Brought to life by director Toby Frow, the dark play tells of the tragic Faustus, who sells his soul to the Devil in return for 24 years of supernatural powers.

In the first half the production doesn’t falter for an instant, with slick choreography, some very realistic fight scenes and clever magic tricks, executed with energy and excitement.

Patrick O’Kane’s distinctly Irish Faustus, although weaker, and droning at times in the second act, is a strong performance, with extended monologues completed with passion and angst to near perfection.

It can be verbose at times, but for many this will be one of the legendary play’s strongest points.

A highlight comes in the form of Helen Of Troy. She may be a mute role, but the inspired character, played by Coral Messam, is a mesmerising marvel to watch.

Disappointingly, Lucifer could have been a stronger performance. Her pack of devils, made up of the ensemble, on the other hand, are more believably evil.

Although named in the programme as students from Manchester School Of Theatre, they slot into the professional cast with ease.

In fact, they even shine during the more action-packed moments when the masked characters command the stage.

They are, as intended, positively repulsive from start to finish.

The ensemble are some what underused after the interval, and the closing scene, with a stripped-back set, is a slight anticlimax.

Overall the 2010 production is fantastic and comes into its own in the round auditorium. What a way to start the new season.

* Doctor Faustus — The Royal Exchange, Manchester, until October 9.