Dinosaurs, blind mice, light sabres – and Enron.

Dinosaurs, blind mice and light sabres – all make an appearance in the stage production of Enron.

It’s based on the story behind what was, at the time, the largest corporate bankruptcy in American history (Lehman Brothers now hold that dubious accolade).

It's fast moving and entertaining – and most amazingly seems to explain the complicated accounting practices that Enron employed in simple terms even a five year old could understand!

Before its bankruptcy in late 2001, Enron employed approximately 22,000 staff and was one of the world's leading electricity, natural gas, communications and pulp and paper companies, with claimed revenues of nearly $101 billion in 2000. Fortune named Enron "America's Most Innovative Company" for six consecutive years.

But at the end of 2001 (soon after the 9/11 attacks) it was revealed that its reported financial condition was sustained substantially by institutionalised, systematic, and creatively planned accounting fraud, now known as the "Enron Scandal"

For those who know little about the story, this production is an entertaining education even if you have to allow for a certain amount of artistic licence. For example the character of Claudia Roe is fictional and included to add a little female glamour to an otherwise predominantly male cast.

The staging is inspired with neon lights, Perspex chairs and a large cinema style screen, creating sets that, despite their minimalist design, manage to conjour up the decadence and opulent lifestyles of Enron’s directors.

The dinosaurs are a wonderful way to give a visual image to the accounting practices that Enron used to hide its massive losses. And the Lehman Brothers as Siamese twins in a single suit is certainly worth a few laughs.

Verdict: A fun and surprising night out – with a bit of education thrown in!

Enron is at the Noel Coward Theatre until 14^th August and then goes on tour. Check ENRON website for more information.