Standoffish - City Arts Centre

The magic is not in the bricks, but in the architecture

The magic is not in the bricks, but in the architecture. Pan Pan Theatre's latest show creates a comic structure of unusual shape and dimensions from an apparently incoherent assembly of visual and verbal gags; and for some 70 minutes, the fun is delicious.

The title is ironic, the antithesis of the action. Direct contact with the audience is made by the three performers (Kevin Healy, James Hosty and Emma McIvor, directed by Gavin Quinn) at intervals. Hugs are bestowed and, having anticipated something of the sort, I displayed a press pack prominently on my knee to repel boarders, but then felt vaguely guilty.

When an actor proffers his heart, again to a member of the audience, he is being literal - yacky. The three are at times like the Three Stooges on speed, in a cornucopia of inspired nonsense. Pan Pan have been travelling with this show, and have garnered some golden opinions in Australia and France. They can add this one to their collection.

Until Saturday, 7.30 p.m.