Last Laugh at the Noel Coward Theatre

A packed celebrity audience were in attendance at the press opening of the Last Laugh. The production had done so well at the fringe and was spotted by Delfont Mackintosh and chosen to bring it to London audiences at Noel Coward theatre. With first class tickets in the Royal Circle, a free drink and a name check at the entrance, Cameron Mackintosh would be well pleased with his marketing team and their hospitality. Frank Skinner, Christopher Biggins, Eamon Holmes, Vanessa Phelps and Mark Dolan were just some of the celebrities I brushed shoulders with.

The reason behind the excitement was quickly seen. Tommy Cooper, played by Damian Williams, was on stage, opening up with a perfect scene in his dressing room backstage. Bob Monkhouse, played by Simon Cartwright, joined him and by that stage we were sold. The accents, mannerisms, tone of voice and comedy timing were all incredible. Eric Morecambe, played by Bob Golding, made his big entrance by throwing his hat from a distance onto a coat hook and added a familiar sounding chuckle.

The audience, and I, were transported back to when these stars were in their prime. It was more than just nostalgia, it was a deep analysis of what makes a great comedian, all built into the clever script by Paul Hendy. There were details of the commitment they had all given to their chosen vocation, the emotional highs and lows, their personal home situation complexities and the respect they had with each other. It was all here and woven in an intricate way that you couldn't see the joins.

I was delighted with this performance and the cast and production team should be too. Eamon Holmes didn't move from his seat in his private box at the end. Still taking in the experience and, like Frank and the others, probably reflected on their own experiences in the limelight. Whether it was intentional or not, this ended up being a multi-dimensional play which worked on many levels.

If you remember their names, you need to go. If not, perhaps skip it as you'll miss much of the connection with the play. Take your mum, dad and grandparents, they'll love it for sure. It's only on for a month so be quick. It's right next to Leicester Square tube, so handy to get to.

This was a very funny, poignant and creative way to portray three legendary comedians in a respectful, deep and masterful performance. Last Laugh is on at Noel Coward theatre. Best ticket in London in March.

Standard Tickets from: £17.75. Please check individual performances for price availability.

25th February – 1st March 2025: Tuesday – Saturday: 7:30pm. Wednesday & Saturday: 2:30pm.

From 4th March 2025: Tuesday – Saturday: 7:30pm. Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday: 2:30pm.

Show running time: approximately 80 minutes. No interval.

https://uktheatre.link/lastlaugh