Dumb Show, University of Cumbria, Lancaster campus

Dumb Show, by Joe Penhall, was first produced at The Royal Court Theatre, London, in 2004. Unlike many modern plays, it has not aged one whit in the intervening decade.

'Mr Saturday Night' Barry (Matthew Robertson) meets 'financial advisors to the rich' John and Jane (Richard Butcher and Amie Williams) in a luxury hotel suite to help him 'secure his future.' But nothing is quite as it seems as they soon turn out to be undercover tabloid reporters after as much dirt as they can squeeze from him.

All too familiar, isn't it? But Penhall's play is so much more than savage political lampoonery. Finely structured and with some exquisite and naturalistic dialogue, it also works on a simple comedic level with its switchback twists and turns as Barry is subjected to his appalling ordeals.

Director Jez Colclough has shaped three highly convincing performances from his cast, on a suitably lavish set with costume, lighting and sound to match.

This was a fine achievement for student actors, easily worthy of comparison with much that I've seen on the professional stage, both live and telecast.

Michael Nunn