The last time Rowan Atkinson starred in the West End as a comedian – as opposed to an actor – was way back in 1986. , a series of sketches he made in collaboration with his pals Ben Elton and composer Howard Goodall, followed up 1981’s Rowan in Revue, the Olivier-winning show he’d made with Goodall and Richard Curtis
A hell of a lot has changed since then. Seminal ’80s comedy turbocharged the careers of all four men, paving the way for the even greater success of projects like and .
But now the gang are getting back together as Atkinson limbers up to return to the stage for what you have to imagine might be one last time, given the fact he’s 71 and playing Mr Bean looks absolutely knackering. For play Mr Bean he will in , Atkinson’s first live show in 40 years. It will tap into his blockbuster screen success to bring and to the live stage for the first time (bar a couple of short charity one-offs).
Exactly what we’re getting isn’t 100 percent clear, but it seems likely that Blackadder and Bean will be classic material, alongside some of Atkinson’s most iconic skits from Not the Nine O’Clock News. But there will also be new material written with Curtis, Elton and Goodall, in a show directed by Raz Shaw.
The Gillian Lynne Theatre is a large theatre and a month of shows there is the equivalent of playing The O2 a few times over. You also have to figure that if it’s a storming success it might do a second season. Still, best treat this as your only chance – ever! – to see these beloved characters performed live.
Rowan Live is at the Gillian Lynne Theatre, Feb 8-Mar 13 2027. Tickets go on general sale noon on Oct 7 or sign up here to be part of the 9am Oct 7 presale.
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