AD-Gifted
The Play What I Wrote has come to The Lowry in a show that will brighten your spirits after what has been a long and difficult couple of years.
It’s not exactly a Morecambe and Wise impersonation act, but it’s certainly set within that world of comedy and they play homage to a lot of sketches and mannerisms you’ll know and love if you’re a fan. You’re in for an enhanced experience if you already know the duo.
Don’t forget to read my review of the Rocky Horror Show! Another comedy masterpiece with a cult following.
Honestly. I didn’t grow up with them, but I have seen a couple of famous moments, and I still felt included and able to laugh along.
But I have to admit, the first act was absolute mayhem. I was incredibly confused. It was difficult to understand the narrative with what seemed to be a series of unrelated sketches. However, by the end of the first half, the storyline started to become clear…
And so the second act was a total triumph!
The audience was finally onboard this absurd train.
From what I could gather, Dennis Herdman and Thom Tuck are a disagreeing double act. Thom is ready to become a serious actor, where as Dennis wants to lean into their Morecambe and Wise inspired gig. Dennis books a stage show of what Thom thinks is his new play, but it is secretly meant to be an Eric and Ernie tribute. That explains the madness, as they’re not on the same page, in fact their scripts are completely different.
Thankfully the second act kicks in, the narrative makes sense and the surprise Guest star is introduced. Oh yes, one of the most exciting things about this production is that there a new star each night.
We were stunned to see Game of Thrones superstar, Charles Dance walk on stage!
In true Morecambe and Wise style, Charles is subject to a lot of mockery and silliness, which he takes with a gleeful glint in his eye. He avoids humiliation by getting into the spirit of things, which includes cross dressing and embracing terrible old school puns.
Thom and Dennis have a huge amount of pressure on their shoulders with this kind of show and they didn’t seem the least bit worried. Their confidence, natural comic timing and childishness is second to none. I’m sure it would of made Eric and Ernie proud.
Their unlucky sidekick Arthur (Mitesh Soni) who has to play countless characters deserves a special mention for keeping up with the leading duo. From a camp director to a saucy woman, his range is impressive. His broken-up monologue about his harmonica is pure genius.
The Play What I Wrote is a stupidly funny and fast paced production that is a great tribute to the works of Morecambe and Wise. Take a trip down memory lane and earn your laughter lines by booking a ticket today.
Playing at The Lowry in Salford until Saturday 5 February 2022.