Alec and Mary McPherson run a little cafe in scenic New Zealand called House of Mince. Mary is a little tired of the monotony of their life but she’s happy enough. Then a man known as Donkey Boy visits London-based crime lord Vic Snow, and Alec and Mary’s lives won’t be the same.

Written by Edward Campbell, who plays Alec, and directed by Geraldine Brophy, this is an entertaining show. Campbell is partnered by Julie Edwards as Mary McPherson. Campbell uses his physicality and vocal skills to embody the many facets of his character while Edwards is enjoyably pragmatic. (Hat tip to Costume designer Hanna McKenzie Doornebosch for Mary’s costumes in particular.)  Hamish Boyle plays Donkey Boy as a cocky opportunist with an almost gleeful disregard for other people. Phil Grieve is Vic Snow. He spends most of his time sitting still but it’s possible to feel the waves of menace rolling off him when it’s needed. Scott Ransom is Pom. He has a good sense of the character with shifts in mood that feel genuine. Stage manager Brian Hotter has a quick turn on stage for a small but crucial role.

Brophy’s direction ensures that the pace is kept up as the story bounces from scene to scene.  The set by Ross Joblin and lighting by Tony Black cleverly support the action while sound by Geoffrey Hern rounds out the picture.

For all your crime story needs.