The Breakout at The Mill, Sat 27 Feb.

A baker in a Victorian country town discovered the essence of his business, and went on to become a millionaire. He simply piped the smell from the ovens out onto the street. These three pros capture the purity and clarity that clowning can bring to our human foibles, and enticingly waft it our way. They have perfect timing and a ready rapport with the audience who are regularly called upon and eagerly join the fun. The creation of these repeated theatre rituals skilfully builds a comedic connection with the audience, and we feel like customers coming in for a loaf or like fellow shopkeepers in their street.

A threesome means that one is often cut out and/or left out, and true to form the homespun harmony is shattered. Poignant story points are well positioned to heighten the waves of hilarity. There is much method and many heartfelt messages.

They physicalise every thought and emotion, and take the slightest cue for slapstick. Amid the raucous laughter we often forget why they’re fighting. As in so many of our own stoushes, big and small, the motive for the mayhem is lost.

This is classic comedy with a sweet story, a plea for authenticity and the knead to keep our traditions alive. Thankfully this show is not reliant on text, so baker puns are fair game for us reviewers