An interactive twist on this comedy classic

Jan 9 2009 by Michael Green, Chester Chronicle

A COMEDY legend is about to be recreated as part of an unusual dining and theatrical experience at The Lowry in Salford Quays.

The Interactive Theatre of Australia’s production of Faulty Towers – the dining experience takes its inspiration from the classic comedy series, created by John Cleese and Connie Booth in the 1970s.

Enter the world of the snobbish, manic Basil, his domineering wife, Sybil and their hopeless language-challenged waiter, Manuel.

This two-hour interactive performance revolves around a three-course meal, starting as guests are seated and concluding as dessert is served.

Faulty Towers - the dining experience is a warm, funny and accurate tribute to Fawlty Towers. It's set in the restaurant of the Fawlty Towers hotel and features the characters of Sybil, Basil and Manuel in a 13th episode of the TV show.

The audience are the diners, served by the Faulty Towers cast; the result is beautifully orchestrated mayhem. It's a truly feel-good piece of interactive, site-specific theatre led by internationally acclaimed actors.

The first show opened in Brisbane, Australia in April 1997. Since then thousands of Australians have enjoyed the antics of Basil, Sybil and Manuel in public shows, conferences and private functions.

Interactive Theatre Australia’s artistic director and co-founder Alison Pollard-Mansergh, who also plays Sybil, led the show's highly successful international debut at this year’s Edinburgh festival.

Faulty Towers …the dining experience can be seen at The Lowry from January 13-18. Tickets, including the three course meal, cost £42 and £37. Ring the box office on 0870 787 5793 or visit www.thelowry.com.