*****

Written in response to actual events in 1970s Milan, this play proves political corruption is endemic, that many a true word is contained in jest and that you probably could never trust an Italian.

Four bent coppers, one beautiful journalist and one psychotic impersonator (with paperwork to prove him a certified lunatic) ask one central question: did the anarchist jump or was he pushed?

And what fun there is trying to find out as the fourth wall disappears, the players address the audience and, briefly, become themselves.

An extraordinary cast rush about the stage, often singing Italian songs in full voice and occasionally dancing with strange male bonding movements.

Des Potton, in fright wigs, glass eye and occasionally removable wooden prostheses, is quite simply superb as Maniac, the central role around which all else pivots.

His tormentors, Nicholas Richards in particular, abetted by Robert Purchese as the sinister Pissani, Culann Smyth and Jack Llewellyn Roberts foam and froth hilariously in frustrated fury as their corruption is exposed.

Delicious updates feature Messrs Trump and Cameron, while Heather Andrews, classily brilliant as investigative hack, asks why she’s the only woman in the play? Fast, funny and ferociously entertaining.

Runs until Saturday, June 25, tickets £7-£10, call 01273 746118.