FOR the first time in a long while I actually went to see a play billed as a comedy that made me laugh out loud.

Stephanie Beacham was back at her bitchy best as hostess Paige in Moira Buffini's critically acclaimed Dinner. Wearing a dress that would not have looked out of place on an 80s catwalk, Beacham gave Gordon Ramsey a run for his money as she served up backhanded compliments to her disparate bunch of unfortunate guests.

Places were reserved for Louise Jameson, erotic artist Wynne who carried more than a torch for old flame Lars, Paige's husband. Married couple Hal, a celebrated scientist and his wife Sian played by TV presenter Gaby Roslin completed the line-up.

Roslin put in a convincing, if slightly nervous, performance as 'newsbabe' Sian, although the wardrobe mistress clearly misinterpreted the word 'sexpot', kitting her out in one of the drabbest dresses, making her look anything but.

All in all an impressive modern comedy that plays on the oddities of social graces and the inevitable fallout they create - with an original twist to finish.

Dinner is on at Malvern's Festival Theatre until Saturda. Box office on 01684 892277. Review by CLAIRE CHARLES