Nightmare - Altrincham Garrick

MARION Bishop is a wealthy romantic novelist and a string of schemers descend upon her house, desperate to get their hands on her money.

By far the most interesting is her quietly intimidating and grudge fuelled nephew Raymond - perfectly played by Peter Brassington. Raymond is completely obnoxious and Brassington, one of the Garrick's most consistently impressive actors, ensures we hate him every second he's on stage.

It sounds like the recipe for an evening of heart thumping tense theatre but there were only two occasions when I felt genuinely spooked by what was unfolding on stage. The play lacks pace and some of the dialogue is downright clumpy.

A real shame, as Pat Williamson delivers a fine performance as Marion, a knowing, wise old bird who has no intention of lying down and playing the victim. I also liked Liam Dodd as Michael, very convincing as a young man with special needs. Although Raymond refers to him in far more disparaging terms.

Nightmare certainly isn't the worst production you'll ever see in the hands of the more than able director Carole Carr. I just feel a cast as good as this, which also includes Hugh Everett as Dr Andrew Thorne, deserves much better material than this eminently forgettable Norman Robbins script.

* Until October 21. The box office is on 0161 928 1677. Star rating - ***