From the creative minds of Paul Whitehouse and Jim Sullivan emerges a vibrant musical adaptation of the beloved classic TV sitcom Only Fools and Horses. This production is packed with clever humour, nostalgic charm, and entertaining performances and opened at Liverpool Empire on 9th June to a packed audience and runs until Friday 21st June.
Under the adept direction of Caroline Jay Ranger, the show boasts a charming cast that forms a solid foundation for the narrative. The central trio is particularly well-cast, embodying the quintessential Cockney charm that fans adore. Sam Lupton shines as Del Boy, effortlessly channelling his character’s cheeky wit and relentless ambition. Tom Major portrays the endearing and somewhat hapless Rodney, injecting delightful warmth into the role, while Paul Whitehouse, bringing dual talent as both Granddad and co-writer, steals scenes with his comedic timing and infectious energy. Lupton, in particular, is a standout, skilfully navigating the fine line between honouring the iconic screen performance and adding his unique flair.
Adding depth to the comedic landscape, Peter Watts and Darryl Paul provide memorable performances as the dynamic and menacing Driscoll brothers, showcasing their villainy with infectious energy—“not to be messed with,” as they say. Watts captivates with impressive vocal work, effectively bringing out the dark humour of their characters. Georgina Hagen infuses straight-faced emotion into her portrayal of Raquel, grounding the story with her heartfelt performance. Lee VG injects boisterous energy into the role of Trigger, while Nicola Munns delivers a truly remarkable caricature of Marlene, making her a memorable presence on stage and who could forget Craig Berry as the inimitable Boycie.
The humour relies heavily on clever wordplay and gloriously indulgent malapropisms that leverage the show’s iconic Cockney accent, creating a rich tapestry of laughter. While physical gags are more sporadic, when they do occur, they land with precision and often recreate iconic moments that fans will recognize and appreciate.
Some reviewers have said that while this production is an enjoyable comedy filled with affectionate nods to the original series and its beloved characters, it falters in its role as a musical. Of the 17 original songs, only a handful truly resonate—specifically, “Bit of a Sort,” “Being a Villain,” and “Gaze into My Ball,” each infused with that delightful Cockney flair that makes them shine amidst the rest. However, I have to say that this opinion was definitely not shared by the audience
My only reservation the placement of some of the songs within the show can feel disjointed, such as Trigger’s unexpected solo and a stunning rendition of “Holding Back the Years” by Gloria Acqaah-Harrison as Mrs Obookao, which is poignantly set against the backdrop of Del Boy’s beating by the Driscoll brothers. In a world where anything goes, the show can sometimes veer into the unexpected.
For devoted fans of the TV series, this production offers plenty of laughs and affectionate nods to the original show. However, it’s perhaps best enjoyed as a comedic spectacle rather than a musical masterpiece. If nostalgia and a good chuckle are your priority, this is one trip to Peckham you won’t want to miss—but if it’s unforgettable musical numbers you’re after, this may not be the show for you. Ultimately, if you’re a devotee of the TV series, you may find joy in this production purely for its performances and comedic elements.
Reviewer: Kevin Eccleston
Reviewed: 10th June 2025
North West End UK Rating: