To say this play is not for the easily offended should probably be considered a bit of an understatement.

But when it’s written by Jim Davidson, a man sometimes maligned for his old-school routines and cutting humour, what more would you expect?

From the outset, Stand Up And Be Counted walks a fine line with its ethnic banter and camp flirting – prompting the odd heckle – but all-in-all it makes for a hilarious two hours of entertainment.

Set backstage at a fundraising gig for an AIDS charity, the story plots the battle between the old wave of comedy and the emerging talent, as bigoted comedian Eddie Pierce, played by Davidson, defends his honour against the young blood.

Indeed Davidson ultimately steals the show with the quick wit and sharp one-liners that we have become accustomed to over the years.

And there is more than solid support from Matt Blaize, in the role of black comic Earl T Richards, and Lloyd Hollet, cast in the role of gay icon Billy Simpson.

But what’s so brilliant about this play is its ability to have you crying with laughter one minute and tugging at your heartstrings the next.

The laughs dry up in the second half of the play, with the serious undertones taking a more prominent role, as Eddie comes to terms with what he’s “done wrong” in his career.

The discovery of Eddie’s humble and reflective side see the audience warm to him, and ultimately, to Davidson himself.