Paul Hendy’s The Last Laugh arrives at the Liverpool Playhouse as both tribute and portrait of three of Britain’s most iconic comedians – Tommy Cooper (Damian Williams), Eric Morecambe (Bob Golding) and Bob Monkhouse (Simon Cartwright) with an imagined meeting of the three in a slightly dilapidated dressing room of an unknown theatre.
It’s a warm-hearted evening and our trio of actors are clearly accomplished mimics. However, with a sense that the show is a bit of an excuse to show off these talents, the show occasionally struggles as it slips uneasily between original theatre, greatest-hits homage and meandering biographical lecture.
Each actor has an expert ear for the vocal cadence and physical timing of our comedians, honed through their own solo tribute shows, making the impersonations instantly recognisable. Indeed, the audience delights in the return of old favourites, as our troupe precisely summon the three personas with just a gesture or raised eyebrow. These moments of recreation draw laughs and affectionate applause – reminding us of why the comics in question earned their legendary status.
The trio draws out the pathos within their comics but passages on the sacrifices and personal demons being wrestled with behind the scenes can feel a bit clunky, squeezed in amongst biographical anecdotes and discussions on what being funny actually requires, One minute we’re watching faithful re-creations of well-known gags, the next we’re plunged into reflections on the loneliness behind the spotlight. Whilst it adds interesting light and shade, it feels more ‘This is Your Life’ recantation and occasionally overshadows some genuine moments of insight.
There’s no question of the actors’ talents, but it leaves things oddly shapeless. As a homage, it risks being little more than a nostalgia trip. As a piece of theatre, it never develops a narrative or dramatic momentum until the very last moment. Hendy circles some big questions – what does it mean to make people laugh, and what’s the cost of that gift? – but it feels like he never quite commits to answering them. By the time the final bows arrive, following a Q&A, you’re certainly left feeling entertained but maybe a little underfed.
That said, the warmth and obvious admiration for our subjects carry the audience a long way. There’s a lot of charm in the performances, and for fans of the comics being celebrated, the chance to hear those gags live again is taken with enthusiasm.
The Last Laugh is an enjoyable enough night at the theatre, buoyed by strong impressions and good intentions. But like a stand-up set that never quite lands the punchline, it leaves you waiting for a payoff that doesn’t quite arrive.
For tickets and more information, visit https://everymanplayhouse.com/event/the-last-laugh/
Reviewer: Lou Steggals
Reviewed: 23rd September 2025
North West End UK Rating:
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