John Cleese Brings ‘Fawlty Towers – The Play’ to Yorkshire Audiences
John Cleese’s iconic television series, Fawlty Towers, has successfully transitioned to the stage with Fawlty Towers – The Play. This adaptation has captivated audiences in the UK with two sold-out seasons in the West End and a lengthy tour that began in September 2025.
John Cleese’s Pride in Fawlty Towers – The Play
Cleese expresses his confidence in the play. He noted, “I remember reading the finished script and thinking it was really funny.” Drawing on England’s fondness for farce, he references the successes of notable playwrights like Ben Travers and Ray Cooney. Cleese believes farce resonates universally with audiences.
Positive Reception and Critical Acclaim
The stage adaptation received enthusiastic reviews. Critics hailed it as “the funniest show in town” and a “fine reproduction of a vintage antique.” Audiences witnessed the triumph of the self-delusional Basil Fawlty, magnificently portrayed by Danny Bayne.
The show debuted at the Apollo Theatre in London in May 2024. It became an instant hit and had its run extended until March 2025. Cleese recalls the enthusiastic reactions from the first audience: “They were literally rocking with laughter.”
Fawlty Towers – The Play: Cast and Characters
The production features a talented ensemble cast, including:
- Danny Bayne as Basil Fawlty
- Mia Austen as Sybil Fawlty
- Joanne Clifton as Polly
- Paul Nicholas as The Major
- Hemi Yeroham as Manuel
Each character plays a crucial role in maintaining the comedic chaos of Fawlty Towers. Highlights of the show include three beloved sketches, now stitched together with an inventive finale that includes miscommunications, hotel inspectors, and German tourists.
Touring Across Yorkshire
The play is set to tour various venues in Yorkshire, with performances scheduled at:
- Bradford Alhambra – March 24 to March 28
- Sheffield Lyceum – April 7 to April 11
- New Theatre, Hull – May 12 to May 16
- Grand Opera House, York – May 19 to May 23
Future Projects and Legacy
At 86 years old, Cleese continues to create. He has recently published a book, Fawlty Towers: Fawlts And All – My Favourite Moments, in celebration of the show’s 50th anniversary. Moreover, he is conceptualizing a reboot of Fawlty Towers set in the Caribbean, alongside his daughter Camilla.
In addition to the stage adaptation, Cleese is working on a new film script titled Lookalikes, which aims to parody celebrity culture. He emphasizes the universal appeal of laughter as an essential part of the human experience.
As Cleese notes, “There’s nothing to beat laughter.” His work continues to provide joy and relief, proving that Fawlty Towers remains timeless in the hearts of fans.
