The Pretend Men present a phrenetic pastiche of American 1970s TV cop shows in a cinematic, physical theatre production, squeezed into just over an hour. The scenario is a familiar one; genuine, honest Jimmy Johnson is determined to avenge his brother’s death by taking on the bad guys with the help of a renegade cop coaxed out of retirement for one last chance at redemption. Along the way we meet parodies of world-weary Police sergeants, wise cracking barmen and assorted low life . . .

Sharp Teeth Theatre has chosen this simple yet slightly sinister tale to make its debut production. Their previous association with this venue has been the curating and presenting multi-genre work and the company’s familiarity with the performance space helps present this short piece in a confident and well balanced way . . . At its heart the story is about love, loss and revenge. There are also hints of jealousy, guilt and mental illness.