Author and creator John Cleese has developed the play based on elements from three BBC series episodes: Communication Problems, The Germans, and The Hotel Inspectors.
Cleese declared that bringing Fawlty Towers to the West End for the first time was a “thrill”.
On May 4, the production will make its debut at London’s Apollo Theatre.
“We’ve been involved in the casting process for a while now, and we’re always reminded of the abundance of acting talent in Britain—separating the very, very, very good from the simply very, very good,” Cleese stated.
“Finally, we assembled a top-class group of comedy actors.”
This is the play’s first appearance on the West End; it was previously performed in Australia. It last ran for two hours.
The story of Fawlty Towers, which was set in a fictional hotel in the seaside resort of Torquay, centred on an irascible hotel owner who frequently treated demanding customers rudely.
Three separate tales will be combined into one narrative arc in the stage production.
Basil is shown making an unusual effort to be polite to guests after receiving information that suggests inspectors might be staying at nearby hotels.
However, a group of Germans and one particularly difficult visitor, Mrs. Richards, ruin his intentions.
“I’ve written one huge finale, which will bring together the endings of all three episodes,” Cleese said, describing how he transformed three of his favorite episodes for the stage.
Here we are, having traveled from Torquay to the West End via the former BBC Television Centre! I really hope that a few of you will visit the Apollo to share a good chuckle.”
