On TV

Going Naked To Work (ITV1)

DR Stuart Meloy was working in his pain management practice when a female patient let out an exclamation. She'd had an orgasm as a result of a procedure involving spinal implants and long needles. "You'll have to teach my husband to do that," joked the patient.

What if he could make the earth move using his pain control methods?, wondered Dr Meloy. Had he stumbled on the answer to the question that had been puzzling scientists for decades - the secret of the female orgasm?

Bodyshock followed the American doctor as he tested his device on three women, implanting the prototype for a week. So far his clinical trials have involved just 11 women - and the earth moved for only four of them.

This sounded like one of those cheap and cheerful sex documentaries that take a slightly juvenile approach to sexual matters. It did seem rather like that machine, invented by a mad scientist in the film Barbarella, that sent Jane Fonda into virtually permanent orgasm.

Some film-makers would have adopted a jokey approach, but Nadia Hall's film dealt with the subject seriously and sensitively. She was helped by the willingness of couples both to talk about their problems and allow cameras to follow their treatment.

Jackie, from Tring, had never had an orgasm with a man. She didn't even know what it was until she read about it in a magazine. Since then, it's been her holy grail. "I know what it's like to feel less of a woman," she said.

I never found out if Dr Meloy's treatment - which stimulates nerve pathways running from the spine to the genitals - works. A dodgy preview DVD robbed me of seeing the climax of the programme.

Naturists are a group of which TV, as well as some of us, tend to make fun. Going To Work Naked was more concerned with getting at the psychological root of people's desire to be nude than to show endless shots of sagging boobs and bobbing bottoms (which it did as well).

Naked gardeners Ian and Barbara might be dismissed as eccentric. Members of the public visiting their gardens might be greeted by the sight of the married couple gardening in the buff. This didn't seem very practical to me, what with dangers posed by stinging nettles and prickly bushes. For Ian, going naked is "just another way of dressing". His mother-in-law was less convinced. "I don't feel the need for it," she said - and seeing Ian's dangly bits dangling over the kitchen table I agreed with her.

The lay chaplain known as Trev the Rev likes to be naked in the sight of God, holding nude services in a shed in the wood. He argued that God created us naked and unashamed, so there was nothing wrong in taking off your clothes to worship and pray.

"It's the fulfilment of what I believe God has called us to do," he said.

Jake and Elwood (The Blues Brothers), Gala Theatre, Durham

THE Jake and Elwood show features the music from cult film The Blues Brothers, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.

It opens with the Black Rhino Band, fronted by two enthusiastic dancers in star-spangled costumes, then Jake cartwheels onto the stage - no mean feat for a rotund middle-aged man. This madcap energy permeates the entire show, sustaining itself at fever pitch. Jake and Elwood are playing before a crowd of devoted fans, and they know it.

The primary focus is the music from the film, but this is not all the pair have to offer. Jake and Elwood enjoy an attitude-fuelled stage rapport, constantly sparring with one another. Jake breaks off mid-song to pour beer over his head, then upends the bottle inside his trousers - why is anybody's guess, but it certainly makes for good entertainment.

The audience is also very much part of the show - well-known lines from songs bounce back and forth, women dance in the aisles, while men in the trademark black shades and hat get up and boogie on stage.

Even if you've never seen the film, you'll know these songs: Mustang Sally, Do You Love Me? and Everybody, among others. The sound is fresh yet polished, supported by the talented Black Rhino Band, and enhanced by Elwood's stunning harmonica solos. Elwood's dancing is worth the entry fee alone: continuously inventive, and hence fascinating to watch. A new take on a much-loved classic - well worth a visit.

Rachel Bignell

The Lindsays, The Sage Gateshead

THE Lindsays are marking the end of a long and illustrious career with a residency at The Sage Gateshead. In their last appearances before they retire in the summer, the group will be working through the quartets of Beethoven and Tippett.

The series began in fitting style in Hall Two of the Sage, with the quartet displaying a synergy borne out of 40 years experience (and 20 years since the only change in personnel). The programme began with Beethoven's Opus 18 No 1. From its graceful opening to surging climax, the interpretation pulsated with energy, with its intricate passages keenly articulated. The adagio was taken to sublime heights with lead violin Peter Cropper drawing out the finest of filigree work on his Stradavarius, while cellist Bernard Gregor-Smith lovingly shaped the warmest of tones.

The String Quartet F minor Op 95 was Beethoven's shortest. The Lindsays marshalled its intense musical forces with fierce and biting string work. The second half featured Beethoven's Op 59 no 1, featuring a swooning cello and vibrant exchanges. This is a series which simply cannot be missed - either by the discerning music lover or initiate. And it will the last chance.

* The next recital will be at 7.30pm on Tuesday February 15. Box office 0870 703 4555.

Gavin Engelbrecht