It would have been easy for these talented actors to string together sixty minutes of their best Morecambe and Wise impressions and, with an excitable audience desperate for more trademark silly giggles, the pair would have certainly got away with it. Their surgically precise timing matched that of the originals, and Jonty Stephens flawlessly captured Eric’s endearingly exasperating nature. Yet, it was a pleasure to see the production painting a frame of tragedy around the comedians: demonstrating the sorrow of being the last living half of a double act, rather than simply keeping their audience chortling bi-minutely. Morecambe and Wise appreciators – and otherwise – will enjoy this simple yet lovely production.

Gilded Balloon Teviot, until 26 Aug (not 14 Aug ), 3.45pm, 5.45pm.
tw rating 4/5 | [Kate Pasola]