The Last Laugh ★★★★ Noël Coward Theatre | Feb 25 - Mar 22, 2025


While apparently waiting to go on stage, three funny men from Britain's golden age of comedy share jibes, insights and memories. This is a show that is laden with nostalgia, but it also works for those who are not familiar with the work of Tommy Cooper, Eric Morecambe and Bob Monkhouse. The jokes still draw gales of laughter, and the personifications of the trio by Damian Williams, Bob Golding and Simon Cartwright are magical. Each of them display a slick professionalism and a near-perfect comic timing as they bring to life their popular personae who have a well-deserved place in the public imagination. Their discussions about the nature of comedy, their varying degrees of self-awareness and their deep commitment to the curious career they have chosen become fascinating. The talk ranges from what constitutes humour to the sense of personal fulfilment they derive from making others laugh, and it is all laced with sharp and silly sallies, old and new. From the meticulous, almost pedantic Monkhouse to the more common and intuitive Cooper, through the usually chipper and cheerful Morecambe, both the sadness and satisfaction that come from being a clown are exposed. This introspection, which in this case happens offstage, stands in rather stark contrast to the kind of comedy that is popular today. Indeed, even in this private setting, the threesome never indulge in the kind of self-revelation, combined with profanity, that finds favour with contemporary audiences. However, despite this change in fashion, the wisecracks and witticisms still resonate, and The Last Laugh provides a completely enjoyable and often hilarious walk down memory lane.

Rated: ★★★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Pamela Raith

When, Where, Getting there:
Map & Location: Noel Coward Theatre, 85-88 St Martin's Ln, London WC2N 4AU, UK

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