Reunion, Bolton Octagon, runs until Saturday: REUNION is John Godber's latest offering and it arrives at the Bolton Octagon courtesy of the Hull Truck Theatre Company, of which he is artistic director.

The playwright, whose work includes Bouncers, has directed this particular production which is currently touring the country.

Whenever Godber produces new work it is always worth a look. He has an uncanny knack of poking fun, providing genuine belly laughs and yet making a serious point in his work.

Reunion takes a fairly vicious swipe at TV's "reality" shows, the Jerry Springer type discussion forums and the just plain daft quiz shows in which a brainwashed audience happily chant catchphrases at every opportunity.

The stage is transformed into a television studio and the audience is expected to play its part -- returning the second half of catchphrases with enthusiasm.

Reunion is the name of the television programme and, we are told, each week an unsuspecting member of the public is invited to take part, meeting people from their past -- some of who are genuine, and some played by imposters. Jack Wesley, novelist and part-time lecturer is our "victim" whose life is laid bare in front of his and -- unbeknown to him -- his wife's horrified eyes.

All the parts are impressively played by five actors. Zach Lee is particularly brilliant as the slimy stereotypical game show host, whose delight increases as the situation on stage gets ever more painful for his "contestant".

Last night's packed audience at the Octagon lapped it up. This is an entertaining night out, with many funny moments. But when I left I could not help but feel that perhaps a sharper twist to the tale might have been needed to make this one of Godber's truly great plays.

Beverly Greenberg