One Man (Bath)

Steven Berkoff is not only a very smart guy; he’s bold, unafraid and very, very funny.

This excellent show is not perfect, and that’s a good thing. Funny stuff shouldn’t be, or how else can he whisk you along on a tidal wave of simple, (seemingly) mindless, fun?

The show is in two parts: a lunacy-fuelled account of paranoia, murder and guilt (an adaptation of Poe’s Tell-Tale Heart) and Dog, penned by Berkoff.

The first is just beautiful: an enthralling maelstrom of a chaotic – murderous – mind in action, full of soaring poetics, mime and wit galore. The second flings us smack-bang into the world of pitbull Roy and his Millwall-supporting owner, with Berkoff playing both parts. It’s acutely painted, stingingly funny and touching all at once.

This is a man who understands – perhaps personifies – showmanship, making us laugh, groan, squeal with delighted disgust and – for many – give a standing ovation. There’s just one more night at Theatre Royal Bath before hitting Taunton’s Brewhouse.