The De Valence staged an instant hit last Thursday evening with 'Instant Wit'.

A quick-fire comedy improvisation show packed full of sketches, gags, songs, surreal situations, flying packets of custard which led us to believe that comedy really is a serious business and a lot more other things besides.

We even promised to laugh patronisingly at some of the unfunny bits and promised to be enthralled and beg for more.

The unfunny bits were few and far between as we bowed to the comic prowess of demi gods Barbara Furlong, Christopher Bianci, Colin Smith and Chris Grimes. We waded through rivers of surrealism, travelling with Nell Gwynne and the Starfish, to Auntie's house with Jordan and home again on a unicorn. Let us not mention the monk's bed. It was probably one of the best birthdays Eileen ever had.

The show was entirely improvised and shaped around audience suggestions which gave you the chance to participate as much or as little you like although better geared to those amongst us who have no fear whatsoever of audience participation.

But in the second half, suggestions were used that people had written down in the interval to avoid the obvious drawbacks of embarrassment.

Word gets around and the next time 'Instant Wit' are drawn back to Tenby from their Bristol home, there'll be standing room only and the queues will be stretching far and wide.

The next major event to look for is Blue Bayou Roy Orbison on Saturday, May 23. Contact the De Valence on (01834) 843568 and be sure to book well in advance.

CAROLYN COX