A night on the French Riviera, via Oxford, in the company of some loveable rogues, who could ask for more? Beaumont-sur-Mer was the place to be if you wanted to fleece the wealthy. And that was exactly where Lawrence Jameson, (Michael Praed) Andre Thibault, (Mark Benton) and Freddy Benson (Noel Sullivan) found themselves.

Act One set the scene beautifully. Michael Praed played the vain Lawrence to perfection. He was smooth, suave and sophisticated, a complete contrast to the brash Freddy, who needed mentoring. Stories within stories flowed seamlessly. Mark Benton was a joy to behold and, when coupled with Geraldine Fitzgerald, provided some very funny and oddly poignant moments. Freddy’s facial expressions were too many to list; Noel Sullivan displayed his talents at performing both slapstick and great singing. Carley Stenson played the love interest Christine Colgate with a sweet blundering openness and a wide-eyed innocence that suckered you in.

The songs were uplifting, funny and full of energy. A particular favourite of mine was 'Oklahoma', where Lawrence found himself embroiled with a feisty, sharp-shooting, young woman, played by Phoebe Coupe. The musical director, Ben van Tienen, kept the music rattling along and had a good rapport with the actors. The script was bright, sparkly, packed with information and clearly delivered. The characters were clearly individuals, offering warmth and witty asides, which had the audience laughing for most of the evening.

The first act ended on a deliciously wonderful reveal, and the anticipation of what was to come was exquisite. The second act didn’t disappoint. It was loaded with twists upon twists, and I never saw the end coming. I’d say the first night of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels was a huge success. The theatre was packed and the evening had a feel good quality that would be hard to match. A classy comedy with a heart. Thanks for a fab evening.