A disappointing Christmas comedy package

Both Jerry Sadowitz and Stewart Lee have been quoted in favourable terms on past publicity bumf for The Ornate Johnsons.

But neither of these two esteemed performers would find much to giggle about in this hour of new, Christmas-themed sketches from this ensemble. True, there are some good, subversive ideas underpinning each skit.

For example, a father telling the truth behind Santa - and then confessing to the family's affairs, episodes of violence and spells in prison to his wide-eyed young son - and an inspired Only Fools And Horses skit rendered as a tragic opera and sung in cod-Italian (to the person who thought of adding an 'o' to Trigger to make it rhyme with Figaro, we applaud you) are highlights.

The Johnsons can be depended upon to pull out a great song when they need to pep things up. But despite the quintet's gusto, their writing is too convoluted and some ideas, like the Christmas party's saliva-seeking wife are neither funny nor particularly well-realised. All in all a disappointing package from a troupe capable of so much more.

Until Sat, Hen & Chickens Theatre, 109 St Paul's Road N1, 9.30pm (no perf tomorrow and Wed), £9, £7 concs. Tel: 020 7704 2001. Tube: Highbury & Islington

The Ornate Johnsons' Edwardian Spectacular
Hen And Chickens
St Paul's Road, Islington, N1 2NA