SALMAN Rushdie's Midnight's Children brings the history of India to the Lowry, as well as the magical world he is so well known for.

Set against India's independence the play follows the life of Saleem, and tracks both his family history and the mysterious powers he possess.

He is one of India's Midnight Children, born in the first hour of the new nation's existence but whose destiny is changed in the hospital ward.

Produced by the Royal Shakespeare Company the play is dramatic and full of marvellous stage effects, including a giant film screen.

In fact the play has an almost filmic feel to it and it is these many changes of pace that ensures you need to be concentrating throughout.

Salman Rushdie's work is challenging and ambitious on paper, on stage it taxes you even more as the intricate tales he weaves have to be kept hold of.

Herein lies the problem; you are so busy trying to keep up with national history, family tribulations and the magic world - that you lose touch with the characters.

And at three and a half hours long it tested the perseverance of this and I'm sure other audience members.

The Lowry, Salford, until Saturday. Tel: 0870 111 2000.