WHAT happens when a group of schoolboys are left along to form their own community?

Power struggles, anarchy and cruelty ensue in William Golding's haunting novel Lord of the Flies, adapted for the stage in a gripping production coming to Bradford.

When a party of boys survive a plane crash, what starts as a desert island adventure quickly descends into a struggle for survival in a sinister world of superstition and immorality. First published in 1954, Golding’s 20th century classic explodes onto the stage for a contemporary audience.

Luke Ward-Wilkinson, whose TV credits include Wild at Heart, Beautiful People and Luther, makes his professional stage debut as Ralph, who struggles to keep order.

"He’s smart, funny and carries all the traits of his doting father, a high ranking Navy officer," adds Luke. "Leadership comes naturally to him. He doesn’t try to exert authority; it’s born more organically out of his personality. He exudes a confidence making him the logical choice for leader. He’s the type of kid you were always a little jealous of at school, but couldn’t help but admire."

Ralph endeavours to maintain rules and civility, with his main objective to be rescued. He's guided by his friend Piggy, a moral compass, but it's essentially Ralph who must strive to keep order among a community of lost boys.

"Most are followers and will step in line to the next alpha male, regardless of their morally confused and savage-like agendas," says Luke. "Ralph struggles and throughout the play is tested; the line between boy and man blurred."

It's a physical show and Luke admits to "waking up in pain" most days. "Liam Steel (co-director) has us doing a variety of killer exercises every day - his particular favourite is The Plank! Cries of encouragement echo through the building as we each fight to make that final push-up, that last sit-up, and complete another gruelling training circuit. But it hasn’t been without its rewards; I feel fitter and stronger every day," says Luke. "It’s surprisingly challenging to behave like an excited kid again. Finding that physicality and mind-set requires you to let go of your inhibitions and that voice in your head telling you to behave. Being allowed to climb around the set is very liberating."

He adds: "I have a passion for TV and film, but Lord of the Flies has been a sensational experience. I’m having the time of my life. The great thing about theatre is the opportunity to take your character on an emotional journey. Feeling the energy of 1,200 people engaged in what we're doing on stage is incredible."

While Ralph and Piggy try to maintain order, Jack fights against rules, and his impulsive outbursts open a window into something more primal. Jack is played by Freddie Watkins, who has appeared in the films Nativity! and Nativity 2: Danger in the Manger!, alongside his father, actor Jason Watkins.

"It’s fun to play the bad guy, they tend to be damaged and broken which gives a lot of material to play with," says Freddie.

He recalls an incident working with fight director Kate Waters. "We were practicing how to safely throw someone into a wall; each person got a go as the thrower, and the rest lined up and ran round in a circle. When it was Anthony’s (Piggy) go, someone shouted: “Piggy's taking it back" and we were suddenly no longer doing fight training, but playing out an alternative storyline where the down-trodden large kid decides he’s not taking it anymore, and throws bullies into the side of a plane. It was really powerful."

* Lord of the Flies runs at the Alhambra from March 1 - 5. Call (01274) 432000.