Heroes

Norwich Theatre Royal

Three top names, Christopher Timothy, Art Malik and Michael Jayston, give a master class in live theatre. They play first world war veterans who pass their final days in a military hospital, reflecting on life but, more interestingly, planning their so-called escape.

At times you feel their inherent sadness yet a devil-may-care attitude prevails and all are laughing as they tease and bicker with each other.

The Gerald Sibleyras piece has been dramatised by Tom Stoppard and therein is its joy. The timing is beautiful, the touch is light and the poignant messages about retaining hope are delicate.

The piece does much for pensioner power. It reinforces the message that you can be over 60 but still have a sharp mind and enjoy the ridiculous.

It is one of the strongest pieces on at the theatre this autumn so make an effort to get there.

At the final performance on Saturday, November 11 - Remembrance Day - Justin Jones will play the Last Post on an original first world war bugle. Justin is a member of the Royal Norfolk Regiment Living History Group.

t Box office 01603 630000, website www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk