Original Review:

Show Rating:

Famous stand-up comic 'Quick-fire' McGyre needs no introduction.

And that's because he hasn't shown up.

Well, that's the premise behind this new one-man show from character comic Laurence Howarth.

So instead of the great comedian, the audience gets a trio of showbiz hangers-on to explain his non-appearance.

Between the dull regional theatre manager, the shady London agent and the Christopher Biggins-like former partner, Howarth has created a gallery of human failing.

Each is eminently believable and, despite the sparseness of costume, it's easy to forget they are all the same actor.

As the wait lengthens, layers of these characters are skilfully peeled away, eventually revealing a bitter emptiness all round.

Though not huge on laughs, this is an absorbing piece of dry humour and proves an excellent showcase for Howarth's considerable acting talent.