Eric and Ern - you'd be wise not to miss this comedy revue!

★★★★

Sometimes you just can't have the real deal. Like when you order Coca-Cola, and instead you get a Pepsi. But seeing Eric and Ern in the theatre is like realising a Pepsi hits the sweet spot just right.

Jonty Stephens and Ian Ashpitel in Eric and Ern, photo by Paul Coltas

Jonty Stephens and Ian Ashpite, lifelong friends and purveyors of comedy, do wonders paying tribute to one of the UK's most beloved and long-lasting comedy partnerships, the great Morecambe and Wise. Under the direction of Daniel Clarkson, the stage show uses its two halves convincingly, with the first more reflective, and the second a "greatest hits" style rollcall backdropped by a luscious red curtain.

You can enjoy the straight-talking Ern (played by Ashpite) and his trusty clown of a sidekick, Eric (Stephens), who is constantly fiddling with his spectacles. Of course, they're joined on stage by a fantastic musical guest - tonight was the turn of Olivia Fiennes, who is intent on delivering a straight-faced, melancholy rendition of "Send in the Clowns" undistracted, and unamused, by the two fools making balloon animals behind her. Her later uninterrupted delivery of Cilla Black's "You're My World" was sublime.

Comedy devotees in the audience were thrilled to be treated to plenty of classic skits in the second act, complete with recognisable set pieces, such as the sitting room sofa. A ventriloquist dummy, a crumpled letter, the André Previn piano sketch, and, of course, raucous cheers for a paper bag featured among many nostalgic favourites alongside some good-hearted audience participation. It is worth saying that just like the cocktail, you can’t beat a bit of comedy if it’s Old Fashioned.

After a night of delights, it felt only right for the performance to end with a rendition of "Bring Me Sunshine", which brought tears to this old - but young at heart - reviewer, who could only think about evenings in front of the telly as a young lad watching the same routines, just with different company.

Reviewed by Andrew Cooper for Cheeky Little Matinee