The first time I saw this show, some 4 years ago, I rolled about with laughter. When I saw this show again on Saturday night, the laughter was no less, but added to it was a greater appreciation of just how genius this show is. If you missed it, you really missed out. And unfortunately it is your loss, because it may be another four years before Cheltenham gets to host it again: the stars of the show only come out to perform it on an occasional basis, which is a real shame, because, as I say, it is real genius.

Part of the genius of the show is because is how seems to be able to move from Rat Pack song, to hilarious stand up routine, to audience participation, to deeply moving moment, and back again – but you never feel like you are on a bumpy ride. It all happens with effortless movement, and glorious charm. And as a result you are drawn very quickly into both the characters and the story and you become part of it.

And this is the story. The two friends are together for a re-union. But as the songs and the jokes and the banter begin to flow, they come to the realisation that all is not well. In fact one of them is dead. And so what starts out as a another well-rehearsed routine, soon becomes a deeply moving reflection on their lives, their friendship, and their partnership, interspersed with moments of pure hilarity. There are one or two moments that stand out: the scratched record version of My Way being one, and the ‘baseball team’ names exchange. Both comic moments stand up against the finest I have ever had the joy to experience.

Everywhere this show goes, it receives great reviews, and it is no surprise. It is a gem of a production and was clearly deserving of the packed Trinity Church that the show attracted.

And of course, after seeing this show for the second time, one question remains.

When will Frank be back?

Neil Bennetts