Fawlty Towers – The Play
Apollo Theatre
About Fawlty Towers – The Play
Fawlty Towers – The Play brings John Cleese's iconic sitcom to the West End stage in a production co-written by Cleese himself. Basil Fawlty, the worst hotelier in England, returns to torment guests, terrorise his staff and try (and fail) to run his seaside hotel with the help of the formidable Sybil, the hapless Manuel and the ever-patient Polly.
This brand-new theatrical production combines the best elements of the beloved TV episodes into a seamless, hilarious stage show. The physical comedy is extraordinary, the timing is impeccable, and the performer playing Basil captures Cleese's manic energy while making the role entirely his own. If you love British comedy, this is unmissable.
Why you'll love it
- ✓Co-written by John Cleese himself — an authentic continuation of the Fawlty Towers legacy
- ✓The physical comedy is extraordinary — slapstick at its finest
- ✓Manuel's scenes are as hilarious as they were on TV
- ✓A love letter to British sitcom — funny, sharp and endlessly quotable
- ✓No laugh track needed — the audience provides it naturally, non-stop
Good to know
Nearest tube
Piccadilly Circus (2 min walk)
Interval
Yes, 15 minutes
Dress code
Casual — it's a comedy, come as you are
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available. The show is very physical/visual so accessible to all
Apollo Theatre
31 Shaftesbury Avenue, London W1D 7EZ
Audience reviews
Brian T.
1 week ago
“I grew up with Fawlty Towers and this is a perfect tribute. The actor playing Basil is sensational — Cleese would be proud.”
Carol W.
2 weeks ago
“Manuel had us in stitches. The physical comedy is just as good as the original TV show. A brilliant night out.”
Simon P.
3 weeks ago
“Very funny — the first act is stronger than the second but it's still one of the funniest shows in London.”
Frequently asked questions
How long is Fawlty Towers?
The show runs for approximately 1 hour 50 minutes, including one interval of about 15 minutes.
Do I need to know the TV show?
Not essential — the show works as standalone comedy. But fans of the sitcom will love the references and familiar characters.
Where is the Apollo Theatre?
The Apollo Theatre is at 31 Shaftesbury Avenue, London W1D 7EZ — a 2-minute walk from Piccadilly Circus station.
Is it as funny as the TV show?
Yes — and in many ways funnier, because the physical comedy is even more impressive live. The audience reaction adds to the experience.
Price from
£24
per ticket
Book TicketsShow details
From
£24