Nabakov credited this satire by Nikolai Gogol as “the greatest play in the Russian language”.

As mayor of a town where civic money is routinely embezzled, Patric Howe turns in a stellar comedic performance, worthy of a grander setting than a village hall.

The tip-off that an “incognito” government official would be arriving sends the local officials into panic mode as they consider the “intelligence” gathered by the unreliable source of Bobchinsky and Dobchinsky.

David Norster and Martin Letts are very, very, funny as the country bumpkins.

As ‘Inspector’ Khlestakov, Roger Minor visibly grows into the role, but his lively performance is matched by that of Mike Clay as Osip, his valet, whose slip of the tongue (Petersfield instead of Petersburg) was a highlight!

Brenda Lambert and Karen Garside vied for Khlestalov’s attention as mother and daughter. Director Lesley Wilson had the large cast working well, with excellent set, costumes and make-up.