Tiny pub venue scores a first

The Good Life is being converted into a stage show for the first time.

Bob Larbey, who wrote the series with John Esmonde, has given permission for the classic sitcom to be staged at the Lass O'Gowrie, a tiny pub theatre in Manchester. 

The venue has previously revived Whatever Happened To The Likely Lads, Porridge and Rising Damp.

Pub landlord Gareth Kavanagh said: ‘It's a rediscovery of the characters and an exciting journey through some wonderful and hilarious writing by Esmonde and Larbey.’

The three episodes being staged from  November 29 to December 9 are The Last Posh Frock, Silly But It's Fun and Whose Fleas Are These?

By strange coincidence, the role of Barbara Good, originally played by Felicity Kendall, will be taken by Salford University performing arts graduate Jane Leadbetter, who shares a surname with the Goods’ more traditional neighbours, Jerry and Margo.

The rest of the cast are Mike Woodhead as Tom Good and Matthew Seber and Rachael Newton as the Leadbetters.

Director Brainne Edge, from local improv group Comedy Sportz, said: ‘Tom and Barbara's fun flirty relationship is pivotal to The Good Life and I felt that the chemistry between Jane and Mike would work perfectly. If anything measuring up to Felicity Kendal's cute sexy status as Barbara is the most daunting part.’

Published: 6 Nov 2012