There’s monkey business going on inside the head of wordsmith Garry Elizabeth Starr. The ruff-wearing playwright is attempting to finish off his latest work, while simultaneously battling the simian mischief-makers that keep hijacking his thoughts. Starr enters cavorting around the stage, inviting us to toss grapes into his mouth, while smashing bananas on his head. Then he solemnly proclaims: ‘I will perform my mental health.’ 

It is brilliantly refreshing to see a show that tackles child (and adult) mental health in such a joyous, silly, uplifting way. Starr conjures up the restless disorder of the ADHD brain, trying in vain to settle down to some work while distractions keep encroaching on his concentration, such as a power nap, a game of toss-the-paper-into-the-bin or a literal cuddly monkey joyriding a jeep across the stage. He is a disarmingly loveable clown who draws us into his chaotic world and straddles the divide between adult in-jokes and child humour (not always perfectly, but endearingly). 

Above all Starr creates a safe, welcoming space in which mayhem is celebrated and kids with equally monkeyish brains can feel at home, joining in, shouting out and feeling the acceptance of a kindred spirit.

Garry Starr: Monkeys Everywhere, Pleasance Courtyard, until 25 August, 11.30am.