Graham Linehan’s imaginative 2011 hit adaptation of the classic Ealing comedy The Ladykillers will return to the West End this summer.
Nominated for an impressive five Olivier Awards including Best New Play, Sean Foley’s production of the Father Ted writer’s hilarious version will play at the Vaudeville theatre from 29 June (press night 9 July).
Based on the 1955 classic film, the black comedy tells the story of a criminal gang posing as amateur musicians so they can rent rooms in the home of the sweet and eccentric Mrs Wilberforce while they plan a heist.
A spanner is thrown into the works of their brilliantly conceived plan, however, when Mrs Wilberforce becomes wise to their ruse. There is only one way to keep her quiet, but with her parrot’s help, Mrs Wilberforce proves you should never underestimate a sweet old lady…
Foley’s innovative staging, Michael Taylor’s lopsided set and the cast’s witty performances won critical acclaim when the production premiered at the Gielgud theatre before heading off on a UK tour.
The Telegraph’s Charles Spencer described the show as “constantly inventive… full of fresh gags and amazing physical comedy routines, while remaining true to the spirit”, while Official London Theatre’s Matthew Amer said: “Not an opportunity to hit the audience’s collective funny bone with a cudgel is missed, whether it be Graham Linehan’s script, which mixes the simplicity of Airplane-style gags with knowing digs at the audience’s expense, or Sean Foley’s inspired direction, which wrings every ounce of slapstick humour and physical comedy out of his impressive cast.”
Casting for the revival is to be announced.