Only Fools and Horses the Musical – Alhambra Theatre, Bradford

Book, Lyrics and Original Score: Paul Whitehouse and Jim Sullivan

Director: Caroline Jay Ranger

Additional Music: Chas & Dave

One of the most popular long running British TV comedies (starting in 1981) of all times is brought lovingly to life in this smash hit show direct from a record-breaking four-year sold-out run in London’s West End. You’d be a fool to miss it. All the much-loved characters are here: Del Boy, Rodney, Grandad, Cassandra, Raquel, Boycie, Marlene, Trigger, Denzil and Mickey Pearce. Sit back and enjoy over two hours of scintillating comedy and an array of songs full of character and cockney charm. Perhaps anyone in the audience not of British origin will miss some of the cockney twang, allusions and rhyming slang but the genuine Londoners among us will fully appreciate all the accents, references and authenticity of this slice of East End humour.

Of course, any mention ofOnly Fools and Horsesinstantly brings Del Boy to mind and Sam Lupton is simply outstanding in this major role. On stage virtually throughout he brings all the mannerisms, catchphrases, visual humour, lovability, and roguish element to bear in what is both a reincarnation of the beloved David Jason and a skilful performance in its own right. Even though you know all his scheming plans and designs will ultimately lead to glorious failure you cannot but admire his heartfelt intentions as his love for his younger brother shines through and his innate goodness is apparent. The greatest compliment that can be paid to him is that you are not just watching an impersonation of the original but are enjoying the character for its own sake in what is an all-round excellent demonstration of talent and artistry. Lupton remains in complete control of the material and delivers a very assured and confident performance.

All the remaining cast are equally excellent. Tom Major, in his professional stage debut, makes a very convincing Rodney, a more than able foil to his older brother’s antics. It will be interesting to see where his career takes him. Philip Childs is amazing as Grandad (and as small cameo Uncle Albert towards the end, complete with iconic white beard), perfectly capturing the look and delivery of the late, great Lennard Pearce. His main solo Where Have All The Cockneys Gone? is touchingly portrayed. Georgina Hagen is love interest Raquel. Hagen has an accomplished singing voice and shows it off to full effect. Nicola Munns, playing both Marlene and Cassandra, does so so effectively that this reviewer hadn’t realised until the end that it was the same actress. Craig Berry does full justice to Boycie and the memorable trademark laugh certainly does not disappoint. Lee VG is an outstanding Trigger, with spot-on delivery and deadpan expression. The running gag of calling Rodney “Dave” is a highlight. Peter Watts makes a very scary and menacing Danny Driscoll and displays a neat bass singing voice too. Richard J Hunt is outstanding in a variety of roles but particularly as the obsequious Dating Agent, and his duet with Del Boy is especially memorable. The entire company, even those who have not been individually named, are universally good and make valuable contributions.

The set is very colourful, easily and effectively transformed from the Trotters’ living room to the Nag’s Head to a restaurant to a wedding dress fitting room. There is good use made of a background screen projection utilising the full height of the stage space and adding to the overall effect

All in all Only Fools And Horses The Musical is a resounding success. It is a non-stop bundle of energy, full of terrific characters, quirky humour and feel-good atmosphere that cannot fail to impress both newcomers and seasoned fans alike.

Runs until Saturday 12 October 2024