Impending fatherhood is the central theme of this one man show by Danny Benoliel, who delves into his past in an attempt to inform his future. But what has a murder committed in 1919 really got to do with his ability to change nappies?

Quite a lot as it turns out, although this is more to do with what Benoliel realises on his journey delving into the historical archives rather than exactly what happened in a northern textiles factory. In his first one man show Benoliel manages to be engaging, witty and thought-provoking. He lays himself bare, and seems unafraid of laughing at moments that were probably not as comedic at the time.

He is self-deprecating, but in a charming way, and it stems from total honesty rather than a need to endear himself to the audience. The script feels almost lyrical and is delivered with the professionalism of a seasoned performer. Benoliel is utterly watchable and has enough charisma and confidence to carry the show on his own, which given that he is used to performing as part of a pair must be a hard thing to adapt to.

A simple set complements the story, and an inventive use of media and lighting mean that the space feels filled by the performance. The direction, by Tom Cornford, is uncomplicated and ensures that even in such an empty space we can envisage the journey travelled by Benoliel. In a way, by using less we are able to see more; we are able to use our own imaginations.

While funny throughout, this show is more to do with an experience many of us will go through – the terrifying notion of parenthood. Comedy is used as a narrative tool rather than an end in itself; even though I laughed from start to finish it is the beautifully touching last moments that will stay with you, rather than the jokes.

At the Old Red Lion Theatre until July 16th.