Gangsta Granny a big hit with all the family

Eleven-year-old Ben dreads his regular Friday nights at granny's house. She is the epitome of boring, she insists on a game of Scrabble and an early night and her menus consist only of cabbage-based recipes. But boring nights at granny's house soon become the most anticipated night of the week when Ben makes an exciting discovery - a secret stash of priceless jewels in granny's biscuit tin. Stories of granny's former life as a master jewel thief are compelling indeed and it isn't long before the pair become partners in crime on a dangerous mission to steal the from jewels from no less than - the Tower of London. Well, it's got to be more interesting - and less humiliating - than competing in the dance competition to keep Strictly fanatics mum and dad happy. Ashley Cousins and Louise Bailey steal the show in the main roles - that is, once you're able to suspend belief that Ashley is eleven. But it's another triumph for Birmingham Stage Company, also known for bringing us Roald Dahl and the Horrible Histories shows. Gangsta Granny will hopefully mark a new chapter in collaborations for the team who know how to keep an audience of all ages thoroughly entertained. Gangsta Granny plays at the Belgrade until Saturday.