The eccentric English aristocrat has become almost a cliché. We seem to expect, hope even, that our hereditary lords and masters are a bit barmy. Too much money, too much time on their hands, a lifetime of being indulged – not to mention the occasional bout of inbreeding – can result in the mind being seriously disturbed. While Downton Abbey depicts the acceptable, sensible side of the aristocracy, The Underground Man gives us an insight into the looney side.

The visit of the Russian State Ballet and Opera House to the Everyman has become a regular autumn fixture and judging by last night’s full-house for Swan Lake, one which ballet lovers in Cheltenham have come to eagerly anticipate. Producer Alexej Ignatow of Amande Concerts is dedicated to bringing top quality provincial Russian companies to the UK and making classical ballet available to the often dance-starved provinces here.