Full of fun and music but with a strong central story, That Old Feeling, at the Mill at Sonning dinner theatre, is a corker. I always expect quality at this venue but this latest show is certainly one of their best.

I felt great sympathy with the central character Ron, played by Col Farrell, a widower of one year who is wondering where his life is now going. His family think it is all over for him and he should put his feet up and maybe spend more time on the allotment. But, at 65, he doesn’t feel ready for such a sedate option, though he doesn’t quite know what he wants.

He soon finds out there is more to life than he had hoped for when his friend Horace (Geoff Aymer) tricks him into going to a dance club. There he meets the funny but spikey Bernadette, a divorcee with a joie de vivre that Ron finds irresistible. The performances of Farrell and Eileen Battye, as Bernie, are terrific. There is a real spark between them.

The family, though, are less than thrilled at the change in Ron, with daughter-in-law Bette particularly vocal about ‘gold-diggers’ who target vulnerable older men. Shona Lindsay gives a sharply observed portrayal of Bette, cleverly bringing out the insecurities beneath her blunt and grasping surface. Ron is in love, not only with Bernie but with life again, and the tumultuous effects of this change rings right through the family.

This is reflected in an array of super songs, written by Richard Harris and Dennis King, which complement the story in a sensitive and exciting way. Each character has his or her own special number and all were rendered excellently. I particularly liked September is Suddenly May performed by Ron to a ‘hoodie’ – believe me this show is full of surprises! It is also very witty, and is not afraid to tackle profound issues.

The clever set design by Eileen Diss takes us seamlessly from dance hall to suburban living room, from hotel room shenanigans to romantic moonlight walks – while still giving plenty of room for the cast to dance to the lively choreography of Joseph Pitcher. That Old Feeling is on until November 21. The ticket prices are from £34.75 to £44.75, depending on day and the time of performance.

This includes an excellent two-course meal, coffee, show programme, and free parking.

I call that good value!