THE phrase “a woman scorned” takes on a whole new meaning when watching Medea.

It’s a classic case of stand well back and watch the leading lady rage in this stirring Greek tragedy, brought passionately to life by Yorkshire’s finest, Northern Broadsides.

For some people, the mere mention of the phrase “Greek tragedy” Is enough to put them off buying tickets but Euripides play is highly accessible and it’s awe inspiring to watch just how much intense emotion Nina Kristofferson puts into the title role.

Medea, it has to be said, has cause to feel more than a little peeved. Her husband, Jason, has found himself another woman and he’s really rubbing her nose in it, because the three of them are living under the same roof.

Medea is thirsting for revenge. But she ends up taking out her white hot anger on two innocents.

What I will say about this play, adapted by Tom Paulin, is that the big, big speeches take some getting used to.

But the language is exceedingly powerful, despite its simplicity.

I also love the way Broadsides use the chorus in this production, giving the songs they sing an authentic blues feel.

The minimal amount of scenery means there’s nowhere to hide for the cast in the Lowry’s Quays Theatre and they rise admirably to the challenges thrown up by a play that is, in many ways, years ahead of its time.

* Until April 17. The box office is on 0843 208 6000.