Rose Theatre, until Saturday

HISS! Boo! There are dastardly deeds at The Rose this week, as the Nonentities relate the tale of the villainous William Corder.

In the presence of Queen Victoria (director Liz Cole suitably attired), we heard how Corder had abused a gypsy and her sister Nell is out to get him.

Why she takes it out on Maria Marten and her baby is not clear, but Nell does wreak her revenge on Corder - but ends up paying the ultimate price.

Tim Williams is in his element as the moustache-tweaking Corder, playing the role in true Victorian melodramatic style, laughing maniacally when things are going his way, and skulking under his cloak.

James Stevens was impressive as the simple-but-nice Tim, who got quite alarmed when he discovered the baby was toothless and bald!

Marilyn Herbert as Nell, gave us the most laughs in a hilarious death scene.

A good cast provided an evening of pure escapism, and the audience joined in - hissing, booing, cheering. A visit to The Rose this week is fun. VJS.