Take an offbeat idea for a new band. Cajole three old timers with musical form, more-or-less, into joining. Go looking for a fourth. Write a great new song, squabble violently, pull it together for a one-night triumph.

What greater praise for MANband at Theatre Severn than that this weary plot line is rejuvenated, like its ageing band members, and becomes a highly entertaining musical sparkling with originality.

It gets off to a flying start with 1967’s one-hit wonder The Delawares singing ‘You were my first love and you’ll always be my last’ as a troupe of innocent, youthful Go-Go dancers do their thing on-screen behind them.

Fast forward to a lonely, elderly Eric miffed that his regular seat in The Welcoming Arms is taken. Obliged to converse with two other regulars, he is forced to admit to being The Delaware’s star and the main plotline is underway.

The pub, with its irascible but goodhearted landlord, giant screen, frequently pulled pints of Gordon’s Gonads and busy clientele is the perfect amphitheatre - there’s even a song in praise of it: ‘All of life is here’. Here the band recruits its costume designer and choreographer, its self-appointed ‘alpha male’ manager Bryony gets her way, and a jealous female trio flirt with the idea of forming their own band.

Above all, here is where the members of MANband are visited by their younger selves at a crucial point of indecision and challenged decisively. It’s a cleverly-achieved reversal of a theatrical device that elevates a feel-good story into something more deeply touching.

The story is well supported by more than a dozen super songs composed for the show by Pete and Jo Hanlon. Backstory solos are by turns poignant and humorous, and in foursomes the singing is rich and accomplished. Jo Hanlan herself, playing Marg, gives a powerfully emotive performance of 'Should have been me’.

It’s unusual to credit a souvenir programme, but this one is notable for its own humour. As well as putting names to talent beyond the scope of a short review, it has an interesting account of the genesis of the story. There’s a hint of a delicious surprise involving BBC Midlands Today presenter Joanne Malin. And minimal profiles of twenty cast members speak volumes about the magic that can happen when a painter/decorator, waiter, civil engineer, student nurse, et al, come together to create not just a band but a superb entertainment. Everyone involved in this production can take credit for its success.

The audience is left hoping that MANband - the band - will live on and perform more gigs. MANband the musical deserves the same.

Reviewed by John Hargreaves at Shrewsbury's Theatre Severn on Thursday 10 October. MANband the musical continues to show at the venue until Saturday 12 October.