In what can only be described as brilliantly organised chaos, Hope Mill Theatre’s cast of six attempt to squeeze the complicated and even dreary plots of 42 classic novels into just an hour. From Pride And Prejudice as a silent film to Tess Of The D’Urbervilles in the barbershop-quartet style, Classic! is a juggernaut of haphazardness that has its audience in fits at times.

^{Picture: Grant Archer}

This quick-paced show, created by Coronation Street writers Lindsay Williams and Peter Kerry, and directed by Joyce Branagh (sister of you-know-who), has a cast who bounce off each other (and the crowd) in a pantomime-like performance packed with music, comedy and witty improv. Audience participation and terribly made props only add to its quirky charm and originality. But beware: those in the front row can expect a bonnet or straw hat to be dumped on their head at any given moment. 

Pleasance Courtyard, until 29 August, 2.40pm.