MICHAEL DRAKE It was the first time our reviewer can recall a concert being introduced by the Town Crier as civic dignitaries from Norfolk and Suffolk assembled for this charity variety show.

MICHAEL DRAKE

It was the first time I can recall a concert being introduced by the Town Crier as civic dignitaries from Norfolk and Norwich, not to mention Ipswich, assembled last night and joined a full house at Norwich Playhouse for this charity variety show.

The first half's Wild West theme was stolen by “Attila and Fly” – the latter a collie dog showing no end of talent. The human talents on display included some well-rehearsed dance routines and songs from the shows – I Can't Say No and Wonderful Day and particularly the impeccable timing in Mr Henderson being the pick – with David Kett and Annette Jude at the keyboards keeping a good pace. The Heather Millan Dancers added clockwork precision while yew hed ter larf at the Norfick chiropodist's surgery piece – I couldn't help but think of it as a female Pete and Dud sketch.

To be admired also was the singing and movement of All That Jazz and all this from a cast, most of whom have trodden various local stages and finally augmented by magic from Roy Davenport and the voice of Michele Summers, of Cromer Seaside Special.

Bob Brister produced a highly entertaining show and the Lord Mayor's Civic Appeal for the Resource Centre for children with cerebral palsy will benefit by some £2300.

Perhaps it all created a precedent.