Captain Amazing is one of the superest of superheroes: he can fly safely into the surface of the sun, save helpless innocents strapped to world-ending bombs and conduct a war of words with a villain in a burning house. It’s the everyday stuff he has a problem with: working in B&Q, hanging out socially with other superheroes, caring for his family. In fact, were it not for the superhero business, he might strike as a mutton-headed sad sack, inarticulate and frequently frustrating in his awkwardness.

It’s a delicate balance to strike, and while sole performer Mark Weinman pours his all into the role (as well as expertly bringing to life a dozen or so supporting cast members), Alistair McDowall’s script leans a little too heavily on the un-super side. Off-duty Captain Amazing finds civilian life an emotional trial, and while there are some undeniably poignant moments, the audience receives very little cathartic reward for suffering through the sadness of suburbia with him. With splashes of wit flecked throughout the first half (including an excellent sketch of hero/villain real estate), the maudlin second half lowers the tone from amazing to simply alright.

Northern Stage @ St Stephen’s, 558 3047, until 12 Aug, 8.05pm, £11 (£8).