Fawlty Towers The Play
In the world of classic British comedy, Fawlty Towers has to be up there with one of the best. Running for just 12 episodes between 1975 and 1979, this TV show has become a staple in most U.K. homes over the years. Written by John Cleese and Connie Booth who both starred in the original show as Basil Fawlty and Polly respectively, Cleese once again features in this stage version having adapted it into this unmissable play. The play premiered in Sydney, Australia in 2016 before heading to the West End in 2024 and now embarks on a UK tour concluding in July 2026.
As soon as I entered the auditorium at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, the nostalgia was there in its full glory with a set so recognisable as the Torquay seaside hotel, Fawlty Towers. The reception area, and dining room where almost all of the action took place are exquisite in their attention to detail, combine that with the TV theme tune playing out, it was time to sit back, relax and revel in the chaos of Basil Fawlty.
Playing the iconic role made so famous by John Cleese is Danny Bayne. Now, having to replicate a character so well known is no mean feat, but Bayne was able to bring us that familiarity but also bring his own flair to a man so close to the edge on every occasion that you feel he may explode at any minute. His comedic timing was impeccable and relationship with on stage wife Sybil, played by Mia Austen was every inch recognisable. When we think of Fawlty Towers I think most people would instantly think of the Mediterranean waiter, Manuel “from Barcelona” who is played magnificently by Hemi Yeroham. With the accent, the mannerisms and the look spot on, it made every moment so easy to watch, and of course the audience lapped up the chaotic humour.
The play features scenes from perhaps some of the most famous episodes of Fawlty Towers, ‘The Hotel Inspectors’ and ‘The Germans’. It is to be said that the humour may not be for everyone and is of its time, however the pure nostalgia and familiarity is absolutely the reason that this show is enjoying sold out runs across the tour.
It can always feel somewhat disjointed when a show is trying to showcase different episodes within one show, however the flow was perfect and it didn’t feel like the story was not originally one told as a whole. The episodes have been cleverly chosen and you can be assured of some famous lines that will have you chuckling along throughout the night.
There are many characters featured that you will recognise from the original TV show such as Polly played by Joanne Clifton, perhaps the calm in the storm of this madcap hotel. The Major, who is always after the daily paper and the hard of hearing, high standards Mrs Richards played superbly by Jemma Churchill. Each of these characters bought such warmth to the stage and it really was a pleasure to watch.
So if you fancy a little trip to Fawlty Towers make sure you catch it out on tour, you won’t be disappointed!
This show was reviewed at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre on the 10th February 2026 where it runs until the 21st February 2026. Tickets available here: Fawlty Towers - The Play | Wolverhampton Grand Theatre
Full tour details here: Fawlty Towers | UK Tour
Review written by Emma Rowley
AD/Gifted
Photo credit: Hugo Glendenning
Check out other reviews from Curtain Call Reviews and get in touch to have our reviewers head to your show.