****

This show draws from the best comedy traditions of circus, mime and silent theatre – and received a standing ovation from a capacity crowd at the end of the opening night.

The performance by New Zealand artist Sam Wills relies on audience participation in many of the dream-like sketches and is reminiscent of Charlie Chaplin at his best.

Part of Wills's skill is bringing the comedian out of those chosen to join him on stage as he tries to coach them with silent gestures and stares.

One moment he is persuading members of the public to perform boogie woogie in party wigs and the next he is challenging someone else to a staple gun duel targeting strategically-placed balloons.

Instead of embarrassing his victims, he draws the best out of them and many of the bite-sized routines are genuinely hysterical.

Without giving away any secrets, one of the gags involves tape measures as two gentlemen try some one-upmanship in a toilet. There are bull-fights, a flying routine and tricks with spinning and talking plates.

Much of the show is extremely clever visually as he mimics pop artists with a variety of stage props.

Wills has attracted plaudits from all over the world and looks destined for a long career in comedy performance.