THERE was debate afterwards whether children or adults enjoyed this show more. The verdict was that, probably, the older audience members appreciated it the most.

One of the great things about Nicholas Lane's adaptation of Beauty And The Beast, seen in the Studio last year, was its ability to amuse and entertain all ages.

He tries the same trick with Victor Hugo's hunchback bellringer, although the more adult nature of the story makes it more difficult.

Having a cast of just two - Lane again, joined by the equally versatile Emily Fairman - and a small set doesn't cramp his style. The quick-changing pair play many roles, and there's a third character in the novel form of a talking hump that Quasimodo wants to see the back of.

Visual and verbal humour abounds, with jokes about farting, ear wax sandwiches, a duel with plastic chickens, and Julie the wonder goat. It all ends happily, for the audience as well as the characters, with Quasi's rap version of Get Off My Back.

Victor Hugo may well be spinning in his grave but in reality, should be pleased that Lane has applied his madcap imagination to the classic and produced another show to please all ages.

* Runs until April 24. Tickets (01904) 623568.

Published: ??/??/2004