David Hoyle's Licking Wounds

Don't be fooled by David Hoyle's title of choice - he's not the sheepish type. The artist formerly known as Divine David returns to the RVT with his trademark combination of grizzled camp, cutthroat humour and gnashing teeth. The result is a ramshackle cabaret-cum-chat-show that's more catharsis than comedy. Hoyle, who opts for a '1940s rape victim' look on opening night, is revered on the alternative scene. He remains a vociferous revolutionary: his topical first-half routine feels like stand-up with the punchlines replaced by pure pugilism. Tonight there is particular fierceness for Iris Robinson, NSPCC advertising campaigns and disengaged youth. However, Hoyle can come over as a fairground pariah dishing out witty fanaticism for show.

His guests have the vital role of keeping the second-half anchored and entertaining - a task to which the fantastically (gl)amicable Scottee rises with panache. Though it sags in parts, their conversation is - at its best - fascinating, lighthearted and grippingly heartfelt. It's Radio 4 in a parallel universe, or 'Loose Women' with brains and balls. Future guests include Bourgeois & Maurice, Boy George and Dickie Beau. 'Licking Wounds' could use a firmer structure and more preparation, but there's no doubting its urgency, intelligence and bravura.