The Marquez Brothers are very good at physical theatre, mime and dance and manage to conjure up a splendid, flea-bitten circus.

But they need much better writing and tough direction, both sadly lacking in the new piece they have created.

It begins, Beckett-like, with two tramps, father and son, asleep under a tree. With their two-man show there are shades of Charlie Drake, the Crazy Gang, Max Wall and all the absurdist comedies of the past.

However, they are pale shades thanks to some pretty abysmal writing that largely left me cold.

I don't find it intrinsically funny when a man appears to break wind. In 2003, I expect comedians to deliver wit and some subtlety. These are two brothers in search of a writer.

Fortunately, the show does have a darker side, although it comes well signposted so when it happens, there is no surprise.

The circus characters are well drawn, not least the two wayward strongmen. Similarly, the clowns are well-drawn and surreal in their arguments about being forced to try to climb into ever smaller suitcases.

Martin and John Marquez have a great deal of potential and should be able to find themselves a home on the alternative comedy circuit and would certainly be at home on the Edinburgh Fringe.

Stretched to a two-hour show, I Caught My Death In Venice is overambitious. Cut down to one-hour, it would make a great piece with knockabout gags and beautiful mime work.

For tickets and further information, call 01243 781312.