Fawlty Towers brought to life in spectacular Torquay show

John Cleese sets scene as Princess Theatre audience roars with laughter from start to finish

The Fawlty Towers - The Play cast at the Princess Theatre

Reporter:

Dawn Ellis

15 Apr 2026 10:33 AM

Email:

torbayweekly@clearskypublishing.co.uk

Iconic TV hotel sitcom hailed huge success

Torquay was firmly in the spotlight as the classic TV sitcom Fawlty Towers was brought to life on stage at the Princess Theatre.

A night of nostalgia lay ahead for the sold-out show, set in a hotel in the heart of the Bay.

The audience was treated to a welcome from legendary actor and national treasure John Cleese, who originally played the madcap hotel owner Basil Fawlty.

He also co-wrote the TV series and is the mastermind behind the stage adaptation. His appearance set the tone for what would become a truly memorable evening.

It’s no easy feat for a cast to emulate such iconic characters, but credit must go to casting director Anne Vosser as the entire ensemble was exceptional.

Danny Bayne, in the lead role of Basil Fawlty, is an absolute class act. He captured the character’s mannerisms, explosive temper and unmistakable famous walk perfectly.

Meanwhile, Mia Austen as the long-suffering Sybil brilliantly recreated the formidable character, right down to her signature laugh.

The show wouldn’t be complete without Manuel, the hapless waiter from Barcelona. Hemi Yeroham delivered a standout performance, portraying the hard-working yet scatty character with ease and earning rapturous applause.

Completing the principal cast were Joanne Clifton as Polly and Paul Nicholas as the Major, both of whom added charm to the production.

It could easily have been a damp squib if the casting had faltered or the famous lines weren’t delivered with precision - but this production hits the mark in every way.

The comic timing was superb with the audience roaring with laughter throughout. Many die-hard fans were even laughing in anticipation, knowing exactly what was coming next.

The detailed set, complete with a 'talking' taxidermy moose head - features a hotel reception complete with atrium and dining room - was a brilliant recreation of the original, helping the cleverly woven episodes unfold seamlessly on stage.

The TV show may be more than 50 years old, but thanks to this lively adaptation, audiences can relive the magic of this fast-paced, farcical comedy all over again.

Fawlty Towers - The Play runs until April 18.

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