Dead Funny Revival 2016

Tony-winning director Terry Johnson (La Cage aux Folles) is to direct a revival of his own 1994 comedy Dead Funny, beginning performances October 27 prior to an official opening November 3, at the West End's Vaudeville Theatre, the same venue where it enjoyed its original West End run after transferring from Hampstead Theatre.

In the play, Eleanor wants a child. Richard would oblige if he could, but he's too busy running the Dead Funny Society. When British comedy heroes Frankie Howerd and Benny Hill turn up their toes in the same week, the Society gather for a celebration of hilarity and laughter. But Eleanor’s grin masks a grimace. When your marriage is deader than either Morcambe or Wise, it's hard to see the funny side of things.

In a press statement, Nica Burns, who is co-producing the play with Paula Marie Black, Emma Brünjes for ebp and TC Beech Ltd., commented, "A revival of this wonderful play is long overdue. Like life, it's as funny as it is moving and needs an outstandingly talented cast. So for the 21st anniversary production, here they are...”

The cast comprises Katherine Parkinson (as Eleanor), Steve Pemberton (Brian), Ralf Little (Nick), Emily Berrington (Lisa) and Rufus Jones (Richard).

The production is designed by Richard Kent, with lighting by Paul Pyant and sound by John Leonard.