★★★

This Raffles escapade combines four of E.W. Hornung's original stories but provides amusing entertainment rather than being a gripping thriller.

And Rumpus Theatre Company's decision to bring 'gentleman thief' Raffles and his accomplice Bunny to the stage for the first time in more than 100 years did not attract a large first night audience to Devonshire Park Theatre.

Fortunately director John Goodrum ensured it was not too dated, and he was well served by a four-man cast plus a collection of voices. Nicholas Gilbrook and Ian Sharrock gave excellent performances as the two main characters. Gilbrook perfectly portrayed charming anti-hero Raffles, and impersonated a sharp American and a seedy crook.

Sharrock, best known as Jackie Merrick in Emmerdale and obsessive fan Jed in I’m Alan Partridge, was equally impressive as the naïve, easily shocked Bunny. Bunny has served time for one of their crimes, believing that Raffles was drowned while trying to escape. But, following his release from prison, he finds that his old partner is very much alive.

A second Gilbrook, David, was convincing as both a duped jeweller and an artful fence, but the role of Dr Theobold gave Nicholas Bourne less chance to shine.