Early Doors - The Lowry

THEY say laughter is the best medicine and what better antidote to these scary times than one huge dose of Mancunian humour.

In fact, I can’t remember the last time I laughed so hard as I did during this memorable return to The Grapes pub, a brilliantly observed comedy by Craig Cash and Phil Mealey.

My first visit was when Early Doors began life as a sitcom on the BBC and this is our last chance to see this lovable, motley crew of characters on stage.

Judging by the warmth of the reception - it was impossible not to feel the love for the characters and the actors behind them on a very muggy press night - I find that hard to believe.

Surely Cash and Mealey, a comic dream team in my opinion, will be tempted to bring the regulars and landlord of this old school boozer back to life again? Maybe not on stage, but in a Christmas special.

Ken the world weary landlord, wants to marry Tanya, but his mother, who rules him with a rod of iron and an honours degree in manipulation, works hard to put a spanner in the works, as she’s thinks she’ll be sent packing.

John Henshaw reprises the role of Ken and does so superbly, as do most of your TV favourites including the bobbies on the beat or rather bobbies on the take Phil and Nige, hilariously brought to life by James Quinn and Peter Wright.

But the best cheer of the night came when pals Joe and Duffy, played by Cash and Mealey, sauntered on to the stage, reminding us if we needed reminding they’re just as accomplished when it comes to performing comedy as they are writing it.

Great fun from start to finish. Enjoy - I could certainly see this twice. An absolute classic.

Until August 4. The box office is on 0843 208 6000. Star rating - *****