The Strange Tale Of Charlie Chaplin and Stan Laurel - HOME Manchester

BARELY a word of dialogue is spoken and yet this is sure to be one of the most revealing pieces of theatre you’re likely to see.

It’s also sure to be one of the most physical, with Told By An Idiot bringing two comedy icons back to life, complete with the mannerisms that made them so loved, so important and such legendary figures in light entertainment.

In a play that’s purely fictional, we meet Chaplin and Laurel, as unknowns, touring north America together and while the company confesses to taking liberties with the facts, they treat us to a masterclass in physical theatre that even includes some good old-fashioned audience participation.

If like me, that phrase sends a shiver down your spine fear not. It can be fun, in the hands of a theatre company as creative as this one.

We also see Stan meet his future partner in mirth, Oliver Hardy, played by a brilliant Nick Haverson, with the aid of some strategically placed padding.

Their decision to cast a female as Chaplin certainly proves an inspired one, with Amalia Vitale displaying a flawless comic timing that is more than matched by Jerone Marsh-Reid as Stan Laurel. Together they’re a treat, reducing a receptive audience to hysterics without seeming to try.

Fun, innocent and perfectly executed, this production certainly ticks the boxes for all those in search of a very different, diverting and highly entertaining night out.

A must see - for anyone with a sense of humour.

Until February 8. The box office is on 0161 200 1500. Star rating - ****