Always fancied being subject to the notoriously awful service of the Fawlty Towers clan? Then look no further… Basil, Sybil and Manuel are ready to serve you up a three course meal at the Charing Cross Hotel whilst you gawp at their world famous incompetence.
This show has been running since 1997, has sold out at the Edinburgh Fringe and now takes up a long term residency in the West End. It’s a simple format, bringing interactive theatre to the masses as the three actors perform loosely-scripted set pieces and improvise around the dining audience.
I’d rather leave you guessing which much-loved jokes are going to come up along the way, but die-hard fans can be assured that most of the classics are hit. However, the comedy is so immediate and of such high quality that even our friend who wasn’t familiar with the show was crimson with laughter throughout.
The acting is simply a joy – the physical presence of each character is brilliantly observed. These actors are truly inhabiting their characters, yet the atmosphere is relaxed enough for the interaction not to feel intimidating. This doesn’t mean that Basil has become reserved though – the rudeness to the audience, demonstrations of ignorance and even violence are refreshingly un-PC at times.
It is important to note that there are also professional waiters on hand to bring you a perfectly good meal as the show proceeds. Spillages happen, but are not part of the plan…
All in all, it’s a great treat. Get yourself over to the Charing Cross Hotel for a theatrical experience of the type rarely seen in London. It’ll tickle your nostalgic funny bones – a perfect winter warmer.
The Faulty Towers Dining Experience has performances from Tuesdays to Sundays at the Charing Cross Hotel (on the corner of the Strand and Villiers Street). Tickets for Friday and Saturday evenings are £49.50, with all other shows priced at £43.50. The price includes a 3 course meal and there are matinees on Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets can be booked up to June 2013 here.
One in a long line of good girls.... 