This is David Benson’s second show at the Fringe. Whereas his Noel Coward show was delivered with smooth panache, this show is altogether more personal and less slick. It reveals his enthusiasm for Samuel Johnson and his intention to make us more aware of the man and his works other than the dictionary. It is part exposition and, indeed, part witty stand up comedy. He opens by exploring the dichotomy of our understanding of Johnson. Many remember the Robbie Coltrane portrayal in Blackadder depicting him as something of a buffoon, but he is also considered as a man of considerable intellect as the compiler of the first dictionary – a gargantuan achievement. Using sources in addition to James Boswell’s ‘The Life of Samuel Johnson’, he gives a more rounded picture of the man – his traits and beliefs. The second half of the performance is devoted to Johnson’s neglected writings, particularly ‘The History of Rasselas: Prince of Abyssinia’. They speak across the centuries with their wisdom and advice. He delivers samples of his work which have been helpful to him to deal with the ups and downs of life as an entertainer. Johnson did also have a few choice words to say about critics which do ring true. David Benson is an accomplished and intelligent entertainer with something valid to say. By the end, we perhaps know as much about David Benson as Samuel Johnson.   ****