IT is unfortunate (but maybe not insignificant) that, within the space of eight days in Dublin theatre, the work of Brendan Behan should seem to be confined within the author's own marvellously spontaneous period of creativity. The Abbey did it with The Hostage last week and those two consummate professionals, Niall Toibin and Ronnie Drew, did it again last night with their extended literary and musical cabaret. It's entertaining for the most part, and nostalgic for those who recall the 50s, but it's not really part of today's Ireland as Behan was in his day.

It catches faithfully the generosity and the irreverence of a lively spirit in its eclectic compilation from the author's own work and others recollections and anecdotes. Mr Toibin's impersonation is sound (if a little slimmed down in shape and substance from the original), and Mr Drew's dark brown corrugated iron voice inserts relevant songs at relevant times. The two work alternately more than in combination and work hard and, in the middle sections of the show, successfully to capture their audience. But the start is slow and the finish fragmented.

For those who know their Behan, there is nothing new. For those who don't, some of the jokier references may seem obscure. For both, the story of A Woman of No Standing will still prove moving. And for those prepared to make allowances, there is still some entertainment to be had in this period piece.