Review: Rory Bremner****

BILLED as the impressionist's Election Battlebus, this began as a typical canter through the rogues' gallery of Westminster in which Bremner lives.

What changed it, however, was the appearance in the second half of three politicians from the fringe – one who has been there, one who wants to get there and one who surely never will.

Tony Benn – no introduction needed – Tony Juniper, a Green Party candidate in Cambridge and Doncaster mayor Peter Davies joined Bremner for a question and answer session that veered from the cutting to the chaotic. Benn was lauded for his common sense, Juniper the environmentalist was listened to politely and Davies managed to win round some of the crowd after starting out as the pantomime villain.

If the audience seemed to view Benn as the political star, then Bremner at least provided the best of the comedy – as well as providing a bit more of the Blair-baiting diarist himself. The accents were spot on – as always – but the one-liners were good, too. Why is Camilla Parker Bowles' voice never heard in public? Because it's so deep: cue Frank Bruno-esque delivery. In parts, it's mean – "I don't do a very good Nick Clegg. But neither does he" – but it's also a lot more intelligent than most traditional stand-ups.