Review: Fawlty Towers - Norwich Theatre

Review by Ray Tempesta

Adapted by John Cleese, this stage production of Fawlty Towers melds key elements of the most memorable parts of the classic British sitcom, and for a gloriously nostalgic 95 minutes, it delivers pitch perfect and delightfully unsubtle comedy.

Accompanied by Liz Ascroft’s superbly detailed set and costume design, we were immediately transported back to the set of the hit 70s TV show, complete with the familiar reception desk, dining area, and iconic flapping doors to the unseen kitchen.

Recreating a much loved series on stage can be a risky business, especially when the cast are tasked with recreating legendary characters such as Basil and Sybil Fawlty, plus Manuel of course. However, we were in safe hands with this exceptional cast, which also featured none other than veteran actor Paul Nicholas in the role of the Major.

For fans of the show, they'll anticipate that Basil and Manuel garner most of the laughs, although this iteration of Manuel (played beautifully by Hemi Yeroham) doesn't have the Spanish waiter as simply the butt of the jokes, and he shows a more feisty side to the character.

Adam Elliott as Basil is a tour-de-force, all flailing limbs and brilliant facial work in an incredible display of physical theatre. Aside from a certain resemblance, such was Elliott's command of the character, mannerisms, and voice, he has to be the nearest thing to seeing John Cleese in his pomp.

You don't necessarily have to be a fan of Fawlty Towers to enjoy this production, such is the quality of both the script and the performances, but somehow it's all the more laughter-inducing knowing where the gags are coming from.

Fawlty Towers continues at Norwich Theatre until the 13th June before continuing its UK tour until August.