A rumination on celebrity and media manipulation, Alan Ayckbourn’s dark comedy is as relevant today as ever.

While the premise is not particularly original, Ayckbourn, master craftsman that he is, tells a good tale and makes his point well.

This is a crisp and sprightly production, strongly acted by its ensemble cast, who elicited all the humour, darkness and pathos from the script.

Characterisaton was meticulous and detailed, right down to Vic’s jewellery and the way Kenny applied his sun cream.

Beverley Siddle was a commanding presence as the manipulative Jill Rillington. Neil Gwynne brought a real sense of bully boy charm and underlying menace to the role of Vic, while Bob Blake was perfect as the sad, dignified and heroic Douglas.

The production is blessed with a superbly realised set, complete with swimming pool. Costume detail is perfect. This is the production of the moment.

Karen Robson