A red spotlight shines and the iconic James Bond theme plays in the background. A handsome figure steps onto the stage, dressed in a classic black and white tuxedo, immediately capturing the audience with a spot-on Sean Connery impression that sets the tone for what’s to come. In Bonding, Cyril Blake plays Stephen Lewis, a character who takes us through the six-decade history of a franchise beloved by millions. From Sean Connery to Daniel Craig, the play explores how the Bond character has evolved and changed over time.

Change and evolution are the two themes at play. As Stephen recounts his love for Bond, he also unpacks his relationship with his dad. They’ve only got one thing in common; yup, that’s right, their love of 007. We all know father/son relationships are complicated and  Stephen critiques the flaws in Bond’s character and the things he represents, while trying to uncover an empathetic side of the equation. It’s about balancing his charisma and magnetic charm, while recognising he’s a ‘misogynistic dinosaur’. Clearly, this is a performance for Bond fans, but if you aren’t one then you won’t feel out of place; the human emotions involved are universal and experienced by everyone.

Bonding, Gluttony, until Sunday 2 March, 8pm.