Rollercoaster entertainment - and a one-off experience that will stay with you for a very long time indeed
The action begins outside the restaurant, as the diners are herded inside by table/group, suffering fairly constant abuse from Basil Faulty and witnessing the sort of banter we would expect between Basil and Manuel.
Jack Baldwin, as well as being a very convincing young John Cleese lookalike, is stunning in his performance. He not only pulls off the impression superbly, but the commitment to the work is obvious. This isn’t only good imitation, it’s true embodiment and very strong acting work. When he is put down, he really is put down, and when Manuel angers him, you’d better watch out.
Suzanna Hughes as Sybil is hilarious. She, as well as the rest of the cast, are superbly quick-witted, rolling with any audience comments and giving it back tenfold. She is a delightful powerhouse of cutting wit and innuendo when Basil’s back is turned. And Brian Roche as Manuel is fabulous. His razor sharp uptake of any jokes aimed his way by either the cast or the audience is a joy to behold. He is with us most and has us constantly crying with laughter.
The whole cast work phenomenally well together and for any fan of the show I could not recommend this highly enough. The only downside is the cost of the ticket, but for a couple of hours of rollercoaster entertainment - and a one-off experience that will stay with you for a very long time indeed - it is well worth paying. Be warned – if you are not a fan of the show, don’t go! You’d be disappointed by the food, service and, of course, the hosts!
