I’ll admit it: slapstick comedy has never been my go-to, and I wouldn’t usually choose a night out at a comedy show. But growing up with just five TV channels, variety-style shows were part of the cultural fabric. Back then, there was a shared roster of comedic greats that the nation knew and adored. Among them, the unforgettable Tommy Cooper, Eric Morecambe, and Bob Monkhouse.
Last night, at the Manchester Opera House, I had the chance to delve into the imagined inner worlds of these iconic performers through The Last Laugh, a heartwarming, cleverly layered production that feels both nostalgic and revealing.
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What Is The Last Laugh About?
Picture this: three of Britain’s most beloved comedians, backstage and off the clock. Tommy Cooper (Damian Williams), Eric Morecambe (Bob Golding), and Bob Monkhouse (Simon Cartwright) reflecting on their lives, sharing their triumphs and regrets, and, of course, trading gags that still pack a punch.
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Born at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and later commissioned for the stage, The Last Laugh has since earned its stripes in the West End and even Broadway, and it’s easy to see why.
A Show of Many Layers
This show is like a well-written memoir, rich with detail, full of character, and unexpectedly moving. As Tommy Cooper made his entrance, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But Damian Williams won me over almost instantly. What followed was a mix of belly laughs and heartfelt moments that caught me off guard.
While The Last Laugh delivers comedy in spades, it’s also a tender exploration of the men behind the punchlines. It stirred memories of sitting cross-legged on the living room carpet, laughing at the slapstick moments.
This show feels like a warm hug from a familiar past. Yes, it’s funny, genuinely, laugh-out-loud funny, but it’s also nostalgic, poignant, and comforting. It offers a glimpse into the souls of three comedians who shaped British comedy, and it does so with affection and grace.
Don’t Miss the Q&A
The first act plays out as a beautifully written piece of theatre. But make sure you stay for the second-act Q&A. It adds real depth to the evening. Hearing the actors, Williams, Golding, and Cartwright, speak candidly about their relationships with the characters they portray, it’s clear these are not just impersonators. They’re true performers who have studied their subjects with admiration and insight, embodying the spirit of their comedic heroes.
Where To See The Last Laugh
The Last Laugh is running at the Opera House, Manchester until 2nd August, and it’s absolutely worth a visit.
Following that, the show continues on a UK tour, with upcoming dates in:
- Guildford: 5–9 August
- Cardiff: 12–16 August
- Southend: 19–23 August
- Blackpool: 26–30 August
- Bradford: 16–20 September
- Liverpool: 23–27 September
Whether you’re a long-time fan of these comedy legends or discovering them for the first time, The Last Laugh is an unforgettable evening of storytelling, laughter, and love for the craft.
Disclaimer: I was gifted the tickets for review purposes. However, all opinions are my own. Check out where to park near the Opera House Manchester.
