The Last Laugh

There are moments in theatre that stay with you long after the final curtain falls—moments that make you laugh until your sides ache, and then, just when you least expect it, tug at your heartstrings so profoundly that you find yourself reaching for a tissue. The Last Laugh, exquisitely written and directed by Paul Hendy, is one of those rare gems that masterfully balances both.

This play is not just a comedy; it’s a love letter to the golden age of British entertainment, a nostalgic and beautifully crafted tribute to three comedy icons: Tommy Cooper, Eric Morecambe, and Bob Monkhouse. Hendy’s script is packed with razor-sharp wit, lightning-fast pacing, and a deep understanding of what made these men legendary. The result? A production that is as emotionally moving as it is riotously funny.

Paul Hendy has an undeniable knack for storytelling, and The Last Laugh proves just how adept he is at crafting dialogue that sparkles with wit and authenticity. The play is a whirlwind of rapid-fire jokes, brilliantly timed punchlines, and clever callbacks, all of which keep the audience engaged from start to finish. But what truly elevates the script is the way it seamlessly weaves in moments of real depth and vulnerability.

It’s one thing to make an audience laugh—it’s another to make them care. And The Last Laugh does both with effortless charm. The dialogue is peppered with recognisable catchphrases and comedic tropes that fans of classic British comedy will adore. However, it’s the emotional undercurrent of the play that lingers long after the laughter fades.

There’s a particular scene toward the end where the humor takes a back seat, and the raw humanity of these beloved performers is laid bare. It’s a testament to Hendy’s skill that these transitions from comedy to drama never feel jarring or forced. Instead, they feel like an essential part of the story, a poignant reminder that behind every great comedian is a person with struggles, fears, and regrets.

Hendy doesn’t just excel as a writer—his direction is just as impeccable. Every moment feels precisely choreographed yet completely natural. He understands the rhythm of comedy inside and out, ensuring that every joke lands with pinpoint accuracy. But he also knows when to slow things down, allowing the audience to sit with the weightier moments and truly connect with the characters.

The added song and fence scene are particularly brilliant touches. Not only do they extend the runtime by about ten minutes, but they also provide a wonderful change of pace, adding depth to the narrative while reinforcing the play’s central themes. Instead of feeling like filler, these additions make The Last Laugh even more enjoyable, giving the audience more time to revel in the sheer brilliance of the production.

Johanna Town’s lighting design is simply flawless. It doesn’t just illuminate the stage—it enhances the storytelling in a way that feels almost cinematic. Subtle shifts in lighting perfectly match the mood of each scene, creating an immersive experience that pulls the audience deeper into the world of the play. For the high-energy comedic sequences, the lighting is bright and vibrant, reinforcing the larger-than-life personas of these legendary comedians. But when the play delves into its more emotional moments, the lighting softens, casting gentle shadows that mirror the vulnerability of the characters. It’s a masterclass in how lighting can be used to amplify the emotional impact of a story.

Sound design is one of those elements of theatre that often goes unnoticed when done well, but in The Last Laugh, Callum Wills' work is so seamless and effective that it deserves special recognition. From the iconic theme tunes to the perfectly timed sound effects, every auditory detail is meticulously crafted to enhance the production.

Comedy, especially of this caliber, relies heavily on timing, and Wills ensures that the sound design supports every punchline and comedic beat. Whether it’s the subtle background music setting the mood or the perfectly placed audio cues that punctuate the humor, the sound in this production is nothing short of impeccable.

Lee Newby’s set design is a thing of beauty. There’s a touch of elegance to it, a refined yet slightly weathered look that perfectly captures the atmosphere of a bygone era. The decision to have the set slightly angled is nothing short of genius—it adds depth and perspective, making the space feel more dynamic and visually interesting. What’s particularly impressive is the level of detail. Every piece of furniture, every prop, every backdrop feels carefully chosen to evoke the golden age of British comedy. It’s the kind of set that doesn’t just serve as a background but actively contributes to the storytelling. You could easily believe that you’ve stepped back in time, into the dressing rooms and backstage corridors where these comedy giants once worked their magic.

Damian Williams is Tommy Cooper. There’s no other way to put it. From the moment he steps on stage, he captures the essence of the legendary comedian with uncanny precision. It’s more than just an impression—he has Tommy’s voice, mannerisms, and physicality down to perfection. The way he stumbles through tricks, the infectious laughter, the lovable clumsiness—it’s all there, and it’s nothing short of extraordinary. But what makes Williams’ performance truly special is the depth he brings to the role. He doesn’t just portray Tommy Cooper the performer—he gives us glimpses of the man behind the laughter. In the quieter moments, we see the insecurities, the doubts, and the toll of a life spent in the spotlight. It’s a beautifully nuanced performance that pays tribute to Cooper’s genius while also acknowledging his humanity.

Bob Golding’s portrayal of Eric Morecambe is equally stunning. Morecambe’s comedy was all about effortless charm, quick wit, and impeccable timing, and Golding captures every aspect of his persona with remarkable accuracy.

His chemistry with the other performers is spot on, and he effortlessly recreates that unmistakable twinkle in Morecambe’s eye—the sense that he’s always one step ahead of everyone else in the room. But just like Williams, Golding goes beyond impersonation. He delves into the layers beneath the jokes, offering a performance that is as heartfelt as it is hilarious.

Simon Cartwright rounds out the trio with a performance that is simply outstanding. Bob Monkhouse was known for his polished delivery, his sharp one-liners, and his effortless sophistication, and Cartwright captures all of that with incredible finesse. Monkhouse was, in many ways, a different kind of comedian compared to Morecambe and Cooper—more refined, more calculated, yet still undeniably brilliant. Cartwright brings this contrast to life beautifully, showing us both the public persona and the man beneath. His performance is a testament to Monkhouse’s enduring legacy, and he ensures that the legendary comedian is given the respect and admiration he deserves.

There are some shows that you enjoy in the moment but quickly forget. The Last Laugh is not one of those shows. It’s the kind of production that stays with you, that makes you want to tell everyone you know to go see it. It’s a play that captures the magic of comedy, the highs and lows of a life in the spotlight, and the enduring power of laughter. The writing is sharp, the direction is impeccable, the technical elements are flawless, and the performances are nothing short of spectacular. If you have even the slightest appreciation for classic British comedy, this show is an absolute must-see. And even if you don’t, you’ll find yourself swept up in its irresistible charm, laughing until you cry and leaving the theatre with a newfound appreciation for these comedy legends.

So, if The Last Laugh is touring near you, do yourself a favour—go see it. You won’t regret it.