It’s not just about the nudity … let’s not let that detract from an amazing performance, which is what he delivered.

He was marvellous. He’s got guts, I will say that.

To concentrate on the sensational aspects of Thea Sharrock's production, however, would be a disservice to its star's accomplished and thoroughly committed performance.

Indeed, the overriding impression is of a gifted young actor casting off the shackles of a restrictive screen persona.

With a maturity and intensity that belie his 17 years, though, the teenage heart-throb compellingly conveys the angst and trauma of a youth in crisis.

And as Shaffer pieces together the sorry history that led him to commit such an inexplicable act of violence, Radcliffe ensures he retains both our sympathy and our compassion.

But the real triumph is Radcliffe's for winning his thespian spurs in one of the most demanding roles an actor his age could tackle.