West End Madness

Constructing West End plots around established pop hits has been a trend evolved via Abba and Queen - now Camden combo Madness plunder their own impressive catalogue. Nostalgia abounds - both through their ska-driven classics and the show's wistfulness regarding family history. Yet Our House is actually set in contemporary NW1, with 16-year-old protagonist Joe (fresh-faced Michael Jibson) eschewing two-tone suits for sportswear.

Keen to impress his girlfriend Sarah (Julia Gay, whose character could use development), Joe's life takes a fateful turn one night at Camden Lock. The ensuing story of split consequences boasts neat visual touches, evoking the film Sliding Doors. Unfortunately, it also suffers from a tedious plot device: Joe's dead father (Ian Reddington) recurs as an apparition, imploring his errant son not to make the same mistakes and his signature number, Simple Equation, becomes a dreary litany.

The production gels more successfully in act two, with tighter musical arrangements (still no substitute for the originals), and prominent asides from the supporting cast (particularly the excellent Tameka Empson and Andrea Francis). Our House's dynamic ensemble definitely proves its saving grace, with show-stopping versions of Baggy Trousers, Wings Of A Dove and, most hilariously, The Sun And The Rain against a Camden market backdrop. If this
show plans to emulate Madness's enduring appeal, there are numerous flaws to tackle. For now, it's amiably nutty fun.

Booking until Mar 1, Cambridge Theatre, Earlham Street WC2, Mon to Thu and Sat 7.45pm, Fri 8.30pm, Fri mats 5pm, Sat mats 3pm, £12.50 to £40. Tel: 020 7494 5399.

Tube: Covent Garden

Our House