CHAPLIN and Laurel ... if only.

It could have been one of the great double acts.

Yet fate had other ideas.

This wistful, wacky and wonderful piece of physical and thoughtful theatre looks at a trans-Atlantic ship journey taken in 1910 when Lancastrian-born performer Stan Jefferson (later Laurel) and multi-talented Londoner Charlie Chaplin were both on board as part of the legendary Fred Karno vaudeville variety troupe heading to New York.

These two comic geniuses were to find global fame in other ways, but for this play with music we see their early days as Chaplin the master and his understudy-in-awe Mr Laurel.

Using a ship set with upper and lower decks there is inventive use of props from suitcases to curtains and stairs.

It is astonishing what those creative risk-takers Told by An Idiot can muster up tapping into our imaginations.

This is a silent comedy that speaks volumes.

And its success lies in the sheer brilliance and versatility of a four strong cast and a script that enjoys playing artistic licence with the facts.

Take a bow Sara Alexander, who is Charlie's mother Hannah, and plays piano throughout on Zoe Rahman's music hall-inspired score.

Nick Haverson is a true clown portraying Fred Karno and many other cartoonesque roles.

I raise a bowler hat to Jerome Marsh-Reid as Stan Laurel.

And a celebratory twirl of the walking cane to Amalia Vitale as Charlie Chaplin.

It is a faultless ensemble team displaying a masterclass in visual storytelling.

Paul Hunter - writer and director - ensures the audience are with the actors from the moment we all set sail on a 95 minute flight of fantasy courtesy of flash back and flash forward slapstick sequences.

Charlie Chaplin's timeless classic Smile is weaved throughout this hugely enjoyable production that cannot fail to make you leave the theatre with the widest of smiles.

If you are a fan of silent comedy and the later work of these two icons, this show is a must for you.

There are times you can almost feel the ghosts of Hollywood smiling down, too.

Bravo!

Silver Screen Gold

Five stars

The production is on until Saturday.

Tickets from the Unity Theatre on 0151 709 4988