FROM panto to Pinter, I love theatre, but I never thought to find a production which spanned so many styles as York Theatre Royal’s iShandy.

A spectacular comedy, from the outset it could be written for fans of Ayckbourn or Bennett, but as the action intensifies, it follows the blue touch-paper into the absurd, finally igniting a firecracker of startling surrealism which transcends any contemporary alternative comedy on stage or screen.

Original, cutting edge and explosive, it is a fitting tribute to Laurence Sterne and his novel Tristram Shandy.

In the performances – all of which present with earnest yet effortless professionalism – there’s a warm sense of team work.

It’s a beautifully orchestrated interaction; choreographed chaos, with the cast, behind the caricatures, in relaxed harmony.

Something for everyone, it will propel winter spirits into glorious spring. In short, this is the thinking man’s panto. Not to be missed.

Jayne Venables, Fylingdale Avenue, Clifton, York.