In this reworking of the Hitchcock classic, an espionage thriller is transformed into something between a slapstick comedy and a satire of 20th century British culture. After a chance encounter with a mysterious German woman, middle-class everyman Richard Hannay must go on the run from the law whilst trying to foil a plot that will endanger Britain itself.

Employing funny voices, a seemingly endless array of hats, and even shadow puppets, four actors play dozens of different characters. Much of the comedy revolves around props - or the lack thereof. With people playing objects and objects playing people, I think it’s fair to say that the stagehands are stars just as much as the cast.

The slapstick comedy is fun for all ages, but there’s plenty here just for the adults - references to Hitchcock’s other works, blue humour that will go over the children’s heads, and an affectionate mockery of old-fashioned British ideals.

Adding to the experience is the venue itself. Sitting in the plush interiors of the Theatre Royal - once a Victorian music hall - it’s easy to imagine yourself as a 1930s theatre patron, enjoying an evening of raucous entertainment after a hard week of building ships or mining coal.

Sid Purvis