Move over Mrs Markham, Tyldesley Little Theatre. Runs until Saturday. JUDGING by the size of last night's audience it seems Tyldesley Little Theatre are gaining a reputation for comedy.

Directors David Hadcroft and Samantha Williams made an admirable job of this Ray Cooney farce of infidelity and clandestine meetings delivered at a fast and furious pace - although there were a few first night nerves and a prompt was kept on her toes.

Set in Manchester in the 70's - and yes, the costumes took us back in time to those halcyon days - the fun and frolics soon begin when three couples decide they want to use Mrs Markham's flat for their illicit nights of passion.

Caught up in the centre of all the mayhem are Mrs Markham (Barbara Dry) and her fumbling, mumbling husband Phillip (Tony Thompson) as each tries to cover up for their friends and colleagues deceptions only to get dragged in themselves.

Andy Stephen's gave a wonderful performance as the married, worldly -wise womaniser, Henry Lodge. He gave a natural comic talent complemented by Michelle Croston who played his flighty wife, Lynda, who in turn was waiting for her lover, Walter (Ian Hunter).

Denis Beardsworth took the role of the effeminate interior designer, Alistair, and played him to perfection.

The complications reach a crescendo at the end when proceedings become almost out of control with scantily clad ladies running across the stage and double-meaning jokes abound as is normal in a Ray Cooney farce.

Should be a hit. LINDA HURST

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