And it might be 50 years since it was first broadcast on our sets but the audience's obvious love for Torquay's most-famous export shows no signs of waning.
Hapless hotelier Basil Fawlty brings back his unique brand of hospitality as the play of John Cleese's Fawlty Towers takes us on a trip down memory lane and a golden era of comedy. And it might be 50 years since it was first broadcast on our sets but the audience's obvious love for Torquay's most-famous export shows no signs of waning.
From the faithful recreation of the '70s hotel fixtures to its best-loved characters and some of its most memorable moments. It is all packed into our two-hour stay with this riotous reincarnation of the Fawlty crew.
It certainly seemed to appeal to the audience who were laughing before lines were even uttered and clearly delighted in knowing what was to come.
Based on three of the original BBC TV episodes, the play has been adapted for the stage by the show's co-creator John Cleese, who weaves together the madcap fun and mishaps of The Hotel Inspectors, The Germans and Communication Problems with unforgettable lines and routines combined into one bumper stage episode and a new eventful climax.
Danny Bayne provides a persuasive Basil and has the physical routines off to a tee and drags us willingly along as Basil tries to win over possible inspectors, try his luck on the horses and deal with problem customers.
Mia Austen is a no-nonsense Sybil and Joanne Clifton perfect as the ever-helpful Polly.
Hemi Yeroham as well-meaning Manuel is brilliant as our favourite waiter from Barcelona.
The sitcom boasts some of the best TV moments in history and it really is a case of 'if it aint broke don't fix it' here as the comedy and set ups work just as well as they are transferred to the stage.
A nostalgic set crams the hotel's frontage, dining room, reception, office and guestroom on to the stage with the famous sign (in all its glory) and allows the timing and fast-pace action to never dwindle.
There is plenty of hilarity classic physical comedy and punchlines and all the ingredients to please those who loved the '70s sitcom. I can also say, he may well have been the youngest person in the audience, but my teen companion equally enjoyed the jokes and comedy chaos and he has never seen a single episode of the original TV series. It seems we will never tire of this destination. Make sure you check in for a night of laughter guaranteed.
Fawlty Towers is at Plymouth's Theatre Royal until Saturday, December 6.
It will visit Torquay's Princess Theatre April 14-April 18, 2026.