Wordplay, slapstick comedy and innuendo are delivered in abundance in this comedy twist on Shakespeare's Hamlet.

Though neglected by Shakes-peare, Hamlet's bungling childhood friends are thrust into the spotlight by playwright Tom Stoppard.

Summoned to Elsinore to attend 'mad' Hamlet, the pair become unwittingly caught up in a game of life and death.

Action follows the incompetent duo as they ponder upon time, immortality and even betting, while the situation spirals out of their control.

The play treads a thin line between reality and illusion, and Shakespeare fans will recognise key scenes from Hamlet, added seamlessly into the action.

All-male English Touring Theatre Company perform the roles expertly, with Nicholas Rowe and James Wallace revelling in the lead roles.

James Faulkner is a joy to watch as the leader of a bedraggled company of players, obsessed with sex, violence and the art of dying.

This lively performance should appeal to most audiences, whether Shakespeare fans or not.

It runs until tomorrow (Saturday). To book tickets, call 01684 892277.

Lindsay Holder