For anyone wondering whether Fawlty Towers could successfully make the leap from television to the stage, the answer is a resounding yes.

From the moment Sybil's unmistakable laugh rings out around the theatre, you know you're in safe hands. This is a production that understands exactly what made the original sitcom such a beloved part of British culture and treats it with the respect it deserves.

The show cleverly combines several of the most iconic episodes into one seamless evening of comedy, creating a non-stop few hours of laughter and nostalgia. As a lifelong fan, I was particularly delighted to see Mrs Richards included amongst the chosen storylines. Her scenes remain some of the finest comedy ever written and were met with huge laughs throughout the theatre.

The set deserves special praise. The familiar hotel lobby and reception area have been recreated beautifully, immediately transporting the audience into the chaotic world of Torquay's most dysfunctional hotel. It's detailed, authentic and becomes a character in its own right.

What makes this production so impressive is that almost everyone in the audience already knows what's coming. They know the punchlines, the misunderstandings and the disasters that are about to unfold. Yet they still laugh as though they're hearing the jokes for the very first time. That's a testament not only to the strength of John Cleese and Connie Booth's writing, but also to the skill of this cast.

Danny Bayne is simply outstanding as Basil Fawlty. He captures every mannerism, every frantic outburst and every ounce of Basil's mounting panic with astonishing accuracy. His physicality is perfect, delivering those infamous lines and manic moments as though he is channeling the man himself rather than merely impersonating him.

In truth, the casting across the board is flawless. This is not a play where actors can reinterpret characters or put their own spin on familiar personalities. These characters are so deeply ingrained in British culture that audiences know instantly if something feels wrong. Thankfully, nothing does. From Sybil's laugh and Polly's dry sarcasm to Manuel's exasperated declarations of "I know nothing", every performance feels exactly right.

This was a production that could so easily have gone wrong. Instead, it achieves something remarkable: it captures the spirit, timing and magic of one of Britain's greatest sitcoms while proving it works just as brilliantly on stage.

A masterpiece of nostalgia, comedy and casting.

Fawlty Towers is at Kings Theatre Portsmouth until 20th June - Tickets are still available here > https://www.kingsportsmouth.co.uk/whatson-event/fawlty-towers/

Catch Danny Baynes interview with Jodie on Musicals and Monologues here > https://www.voicefmradio.co.uk/player/on-demand/items/musicals-and-monologues-with-jodie-7th-june/

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