Showing @ King’s Theatre, Edinburgh until Sat 5 Nov

Simon Callow’s long love affair with Charles Dickens continues with this touring production of two lesser known tales by the author. Dr Marigold and Mr Chops may not be of the same quality as the writer’s more familiar work (it would be fair to call them slight), yet they still contain that mix of character, storytelling and journalistic detail that make Dickens so popular and Callow’s enthusiastic playing make these vivid little vignettes come to life.

Dickens’ ear for dialogue and his pleasure in the speech and mannerisms of those on the periphery of society are well demonstrated here, as is his tendency toward the cloyingly sentimental which tends to put many off his work. Callow revels in the palette full of colour these travellers and side-show folk allow him, playing everything from Chops – the disheartened performing dwarf – to a slow witted giant and the Del Boy manqué of Dr Marigold.

There’s no doubt that these tales contain plenty of the treacly side of Dickens’ writing and, excellent a performer as Callow is, there are still times when you are reminded of Oscar Wilde’s words on the death of Little Nell. Fortunately there is also enough vinegar in the form of satirical digs at politicians and the hypocrisy of society to balance the sugar content.

It’s difficult to imagine anyone else performing these stories – partially because of Callow’s passion and connection to Dickens and partially because you can’t think of many other performers who would want to take on these – occasionally delightful but essentially forgettable pieces of work. It’s Callow’s energy, commitment and un-ironic openness to the words that make this a show worth watching . You can’t help but feel another actor might have come to this project with a more jaded and cynical eye. But as long as you go along to this show without great expectations (sorry), you won’t be disappointed.