Over in Liverpool's Royal Court, actor Paul Duckworth was singing the praises of a local hero in a home-grown world premiere.
A true story about a passionate Evertonian born to walk...into the history books, that is.
It's a celebration of a charity fundraiser in a swimming cozzie.
Michael Cullen - the 'Scouse Stomper' known as Speedo Mick became headline news when he literally took like a duck to water to swim the Channel and raise money and awareness of mental health.
He was an addict in his teenage years, became a homeless human statistic and wanted to help those like him.
He took part in marathons and gruelling activities across the length and breadth of the UK and Ireland.
Now his story is on the stage, written by John Fay and directed by Conrad Nelson.
They make a good team with Court stalwarts Paul Duckworth (Mick) and Lenny Wood (Johnny) providing extra gravitas.
And Polly Lister is top-notch as Mick's supportive wife.
There are smiles and sighs in equal measure.
Laughter is ever present.
Full marks to an ensemble cast of multi-talented actors and musicians.
It is an uplifting story well told.
Anything preachy is kept to a minimum, as over the two hours and 15 minutes running time, we discover what makes Mick tick.
Original songs are crafted by Boff Whalley of Chumbawamba fame and they carry the narrative along.
There's also an atmospheric version of Johnny Todd - the Z Cars theme.
Ellie Light's set includes a revolve, and there's some smashing back projections, real news footage, and inventive use of props.
We have all seen Speedo on TV and in the press, and this production answers the questions many asked about this charismatic Dovecot dynamo sporting a pair of blue Speedo swimming trunks he calls 'knickers'.
He has raised a stunning million pounds for charity.
Paul Duckworth does a fine job of capturing Mick's multi-layered personality.
Speedo Mick - The Musical is a heart-warming, entertaining tribute to a larger-than-life character who will no doubt continue to make a difference with his unique, ongoing bucket list.
Take a bow, Mick.
4 Stars
Electric Blue
Until Jul 5
0151 709 4321
@RoyalLiv