Writers: Jim Sullivan and Paul Whitehouse
Director: Caroline Jay Ranger
Only Fool and Horses the Musical at Leeds Grand Theatre is a heartwarming, laugh-out-loud celebration of one of Britain’s most beloved sitcoms. Bursting with nostalgia, this stage adaptation captures the charm, humor, and camaraderie that made the TV series such a national treasure.
From the moment the familiar theme tune plays, the audience is transported back to Peckham, where Del Boy, Rodney, Grandad, and the gang embark on their classic capers. The script, co-written by Jim Sullivan (son of original creator John Sullivan) and Paul Whitehouse, expertly weaves together the show’s most iconic moments while introducing musical numbers that simply add to the fun even if some of the tunes are forgettable.
Sam Lupton as Del Boy is a standout, nailing the mannerisms and cheeky charisma of David Jason’s original performance, while Tom Major in his professional debut as Rodney perfectly embodies the lovable but hapless younger Trotter – watch out for him, he’s going places!
The supporting cast, including Nicola Munns as Marlene and Cassandra and Craig Barry as Boycie, bring plenty of laughs, and the dynamic between Grandad and the brothers remains as touching as ever. There’s even a cameo from dear Uncle Albert!
The set design cleverly recreates the Nag’s Head, Nelson Mandela House, and other familiar locations, immersing the audience in a world they know and love. The music, a mix of original songs and nostalgic nods, helps drive the story while keeping the show’s signature humor intact.
The challenge being then was to condense years worth of TV gold into a two-hour musical and it mostly works. There’s warmth and energy in abundance here and the sheer fun-factor of the production makes it a hit. Fans of the original series will revel in the nostalgia, while newcomers will be swept up in the feel-good charm of the show. The songs aren’t great but there’s a certain naive charm about them. It’s surely a writers nemesis to weave songs successfully into a theatre show that, in its original form, is held in such high regard. But the selling point here is the title of show – and this particular musical shouldn’t be taken too seriously.
A must-see for any Only Fools and Horses fan – this musical will leave you grinning like a Cheshire cat. Lovely jubbly!
Runs until until 1st March 2025, before continuing on tour
