IN A side-splitting new production at the New Vic Theatre in Newcastle-under-Lyme, Stan and Ollie are re-born for the stage in Tom McGrath’s affectionate, fascinating and funny play. Some of the duo’s greatest ever routines are re-created with amazing precision in Laurel and Hardy.
From the early silent ‘shorts’ of 1927 to their last feature in 1950, Laurel and Hardy appeared together in more than 100 films.
Surviving the Great Depression, the arrival of the ‘talkies’ and the Second World War, Hollywood’s iconic comedy duo made the whole world laugh and, 50 years later, we’re still laughing.
In this fly-on-the-wall look at the real people beneath the bowler hats, ‘The Boys’ tell their own life stories from beyond the grave. The darker side of the movie business is here; but so too is their warm and complex relationship and their timeless comedy.
TV’s own Ollie, Mike Goodenough, will be returning to the stage as Hardy following his success in the popular BBC 4 drama, Stan.
After seeing off fierce competition from a host of big names to star in the TV special, Mike’s appearance at the New Vic will be a showbiz first, as he becomes the only actor to play Ollie on stage and screen.
Joining Mike is acclaimed comedy actor Stephen Harper as Laurel. A clowning buff and master of physical theatre – not to mention a talented National Theatre actor – Stephen’s latest role demands all his expertise, as he and Mike bring the comedy legends to life.
At the helm of the production is founding artistic director of the award-winning Unlimited Theatre Paul Warwick, who makes his debut at the New Vic.
Laurel and Hardy can be seen at the New Vic from Friday, July 27-Saturday, August 11. Ring the box office on 01782 717962 or visit at www.newvictheatre.org.uk.
