Jay Johnson needs more puppet action

The trouble is that he seems more concerned about regaling the audience with the not particularly amusing history of his job and his own career when what they surely want to see is his masterful verbal dexterity.

This is a child-friendly adult show that only really comes to life when Johnson brings his menagerie to life. Or in one convincingly creepy moment, when he revives a severed head.

Sitcom fans may recognise Johnson as the dummy-carrying character with the split personality in the old series Soap. A chunk of his monologue is taken up with memories of his casting. The producers wanted Johnson, but not his doll, which prompts a re-enactment that is both moving and terribly stilted. Ironically it is Johnson who is the more wooden performer.

There is certainly considerable fun to be had watching him banter with a talking tennis ball called Spalding or monkey around with his manic monkey Darwin. In one delightful moment he even gives a two-dimensional cartoon a 3-D personality.

But between these highlights there is too much sentimentality, particularly when Johnson recalls his ageing mentor passing the baton. A little less conversation, a little more puppet action and this could be fantastic.

Until 28 September (0844 847 1727, www.thetwoandonly.co.uk).

Jay Johnson
Arts Theatre
6/7 Great Newport Street, London, WC2H 7JB