The Last Laugh Milton Keynes Theatre till Saturday 12 July. Interview with Simon Cartwright and Review
Brand New Comedy The Last Laugh Comes To Milton Keynes Theatre
Three of Britain’s most loved comedians are reunited in this brand new play at Milton Keynes Theatre this July.
Simon, from early morning 4-7am, spoke to Simon Cartwright
Simons review
The Last Laugh: A Triumphant Tribute to Comedy Legends
The Last Laugh at MK Theatre isn't just a play; it's a vibrant resurrection of three beloved comedy icons, brought to life by a truly exceptional cast. From the moment the lights rise, we're transported to a golden age of British humor, beginning with the inimitable Tommy Cooper, masterfully portrayed by Damian Williams, simply being Tommy Cooper. His mere presence elicits immediate laughter from the MK Theatre audience, a testament to the profound impact of his comedic genius and Williams' uncanny embodiment.
He's soon joined on stage by the equally legendary Eric Morecambe, played with remarkable authenticity by Bob Golding, and Bob Monkhouse, brilliantly channeled by Simon Cartwright. What unfolds is nothing short of extraordinary. This production doesn't offer caricatures; it presents us with the real people behind the legends. Every line, every gesture, every nuance from Williams, Golding, and Cartwright makes them increasingly believable, drawing us deeper into their world.
The attention to detail is evident backstage, where the dressing room is adorned with Tommy's props, Eric's ukulele, and Bob's iconic silver suitcase. The flickering lights illuminate a back wall lined with images of other comedic greats like Max Miller and Sid James, with a poignant empty space hinting at the broader legacy.
The narrative deftly weaves through the comedic journey of these three heroes, sharing their jokes, stories, and personal backgrounds. These aren't just isolated moments but rather crucial points that illuminate their lives and careers, offering a rich tapestry of their experiences.
The play builds to a powerful, albeit anticipated, conclusion, and by the time you realize the inevitable direction, you're so thoroughly invested in the journey that it only adds to the emotional impact.
The Last Laugh is an absolute must-see, whether you cherish fond memories of these comedians, wish to rekindle those memories, or are eager to discover the brilliance of three true greats for the very first time. Catch The Last Laugh at MK Theatre until Saturday, and be sure to stay for the insightful Q&A session afterward!
Following sell-out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and London’s West End, producers Jamie Wilson Productions and Emily Wood for Evolution Productions are delighted to be bringing The Last Laugh to Milton Keynes. Written and directed by Paul Hendy, this new play will run at Milton Keynes Theatre from Tuesday 8 to Saturday 12 July.
The Last Laugh stars Bob Golding as Eric Morecambe, Damian Williams as Tommy Cooper and Simon Cartwright as Bob Monkhouse who all reprise their roles following the Edinburgh and West End runs.
This brand-new play re-imagines the lives of three of Britain's all-time greatest comedy heroes – Tommy Cooper, Eric Morecambe and Bob Monkhouse. Filled with great gags and touching stories, The Last Laugh is nostalgic, poignant and guaranteed to be an unforgettable night out.
Producer Jamie Wilson said “The young team here at JWP were bowled over by the relevance of their timeless comedy and after seeing it myself in Edinburgh, I just knew it had to have a further life so many more people could experience it. What is so brilliant about this play is the audiences who love and remember Eric, Tommy and Bob will be able to relive their comedy greatness and those that don’t, will be introduced to the genius of these national treasures. I'm so pleased these icons will be back on the London stage for
audiences to enjoy”.
Bob Golding starred as Eric Morecambe in the West End hit Morecambe at the Duchess Theatre for which he was nominated for an Olivier Award, with the show winning the Olivier Award for Best Entertainment. He has also appeared in the West End production of the musicals Only The Lonely and Elvis The Musical. Damian Williams played Tommy Cooper in the tour of Being Tommy Cooper. His many other theatre credits include Edna Turnblad in the national tour of the musical Hairspray as well as the national tour of The Ladykillers and the plays Bouncers and Educating Rita. For the past 17 years he has been the resident Dame in the pantomimes at the Sheffield Lyceum and was awarded Best Pantomime Dame at The Great British Pantomime Awards. Simon Cartwright has been an actor and impressionist since the 1980s, appearing at The Comedy Store many times. He has appeared in the award-winning Channel 4 hit Toast of London and the films Mother’s Day and Closure. He has recently toured the UK in the stage play Howerd’s End in which he portrays the legendary comedian Frankie Howerd.
The Last Laugh is written and directed by Paul Hendy. Set design is by Lee Newby, Music and Soundscape design by Ethan Lewis Maltby, Sound design by Callum Wills, Costume design by Amy Chamberlain and Casting by Kate Roddy.
Book your tickets now at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes
