Some shows don't stop at 'iconic' and Fawlty Towers is definitely one of them. In fact such is the gravitas of this sitcom classic that the audience in Wolverhampton this evening was a perfect split of 'cautiously optimistic' and 'I'm not sure this will work'.
With 12 episodes spanning two series, Fawlty Towers is one of the greatest British sitcoms of all time.
Having won BAFTA's for Best Scripted Comedy and Best Entertainment Performance, the show was ranked first on a list of the 100 Greatest British Television Programmes drawn up by the British Film Institute in 2000.
In fact the BBC profile for the series calls it "the British sitcom by which all other British sitcoms must be judged" and so much of that is based on the characters who inhabit this fictional Devonian hotel.
This production is a joyous reminder of just how indestructible this classic comedy is when it’s placed in the right hands. From the moment the curtain rises, it’s clear that this cast understands the fine balance required; honour the original characters while still letting the performances feel alive, immediate and theatrical.
At the centre of it all is an outstanding performance from a duo playing the most recognisable married couple on TV.
Mia Austen is outstanding as Sybil, a character who dominates the stage with pitch-perfect authority. Her devastating put-downs and effortless control of both Basil and the audience are a constant delight - and her rendition of Sybil's laugh at the start meant those naysayers in the stalls gave a huge sigh of relief straight away!
Alongside Sybil, Danny Bayne is exceptional as Basil. Incredibly, he captures his volcanic blend of arrogance, panic and barely suppressed rage with astonishing precision. The physical comedy is razor-sharp as well. Every twitch, glare and spluttering outburst lands perfectly and he has Cleese's mannerisms down to a tee.
But from both Austin and Bayne it’s the pacing that really impresses. The performance never becomes an impersonation; instead, it feels like the duo have leapt fully formed from the screen onto the stage, still gloriously unpredictable and permanently on the brink of collapse.
We also need to pause to reflect on Joanne Clifton's near-perfect take on Polly. Her mannerisms and voice were so spot on, it could easily have been Connie Booth on stage this evening.
What makes this production such a success is how confidently the cast inhabit these iconic roles. They clearly respect the original performances while injecting enough energy and spontaneity to make the show feel fresh for a live audience.
Whether you're a die-hard fan or just someone who appreciate's a good laugh - this play is everything you want it to be...and so much more.
Fawlty Towers The Play runs at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre until 21st February 2026. For more information, visit grandtheatre.co.uk.
