Comedy Icon Trio Returns: ‘The Last Laugh’ Set for Major UK and Ireland Tour in 2026

The critically acclaimed stage comedy 'The Last Laugh' is set to make its highly anticipated return with an extensive UK and Ireland tour in 2026, promising laughter, nostalgia, and a celebration of Britain’s comic legends. Kicking off at Malvern Theatres on 28 April 2026, the box office hit will visit a total of 21 venues.

Key Takeaways

• 'The Last Laugh' revives three of Britain's most beloved comedians on stage: Tommy Cooper, Eric Morecambe, and Bob Monkhouse.

• West End and Edinburgh Fringe alumni Damian Williams (Tommy Cooper) and Simon Cartwright (Bob Monkhouse) return, joined by 'Britain’s Got Talent' finalist Steve Royle as Eric Morecambe.

• The show will travel across notable venues in England, Wales, Jersey, and Ireland throughout 2026.

Comedy Icons Take Centre Stage

Penned and directed by Paul Hendy, 'The Last Laugh' imagines an intimate and witty meeting between three titans of British comedy. Set in a dressing room, audiences are treated to the sharp banter, wisdom, and charm as Cooper, Morecambe, and Monkhouse debate the nature of comedy, life, and legacy. The result is a production that has been described as both hilarious and poignantly moving.

From Edinburgh Fringe to National Favourite

Originally a sell-out at the 2024 Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the play went on to receive five-star accolades in the West End in 2025, earning praise for its clever script, dazzling characterisation, and heartfelt tributes. Building on this success, the upcoming tour will offer audiences across the UK and Ireland their own chance to experience the show’s unique blend of warmth and humour.

Stellar Creative Team

The production will feature:

• Set design by Lee Newby

• Musical arrangements by Ethan Lewis Maltby

• Sound design by Callum Wills

• Lighting from Johanna Town

• Costumes by Amy Chamberlain

• Casting by Kate Roddy

Richard Hodder completes the cast as the walking cover for all principal roles, adding versatility to the seasoned ensemble.

Tour Destinations Announced

Following its opening at Malvern Theatres, 'The Last Laugh' will tour a diverse array of locations, including Plymouth, Shrewsbury, Portsmouth, Eastbourne, Torquay, Watford, Cardiff, Cheltenham, Barnstaple, Peterborough, Jersey, Darlington, Buxton, Nottingham, Wolverhampton, New Brighton, Leicester, and Tunbridge Wells.

Audiences can expect an evening that celebrates the golden age of British comedy, with thoughtful reminiscences, rapid-fire punchlines, and outstanding performances certain to delight both loyal fans and new theatregoers alike.

References

• Critically acclaimed comedy THE LAST LAUGH returns for UK and Ireland tour, West End Best Friend.