Original Review:

Kenneth Williams cut a classic tragi-comic figure as the unhappy clown, adored by millions yet who died alone and unloved.

He perhaps only had himself to blame, thanks to the morbid dread of intimacy that was so poignantly revealed in his intimate diaries.

Those inner thoughts have proved so valuable to numerous biographers, as well as David Benson, the man behind this emotive one-man show.

He approaches his subject not so much as a die-hard fan, but as someone who never really knew how much he admired Williams until he died. Much like the rest of the population.

The Carry On star was, of course,unique. Much imitated but one of a kind. Here Benson adds his name to that burgeoning list of effective mimics, as he revels in the flared nostrils, the mock outrage, and the delicious rolling of the Rs as words like 'renaissance' drip from his lips.

Every personality defect of the indignant, snooty star is brought to life here - the desperate need to be cared for, the frustrated sexual desires, the fickle mood swings, the misanthropy and the suicidal thoughts - but none of them diluting the esteem Williams was held in.

The show does gloss over some major aspects of William's despair, such as his overwhelming desire to be seen as a serious actor rather than a camp pantomime turn, but it is a touching and engrossing portrait

Much of the homage comes from the recollections of a schoolboy Benson, whose story was once read by Williams on Jackanory. He was disappointed - he had wanted Spike Milligan.

It's in these central segments that Benson demonstrates an even greater gift for characterisation, with everything from thumbnail impressions of the Dad's Army cast to the fully-formed comic character of the humourless Brummie headteacher.

All this forms a wonderful tribute to the star. It may not be a revelation, but it's a sweet, heartfelt, and personal interpretation of how a flawed but iconic entertainer left an indelible impression on a grateful generation.