Funny Turns

Following two sold-out London productions David Hampshire’s acclaimed play comes to Eastbourne.

 ‘‘A darling show.’’ Dame Joanna Lumley

Set in a theatrical boarding house in 1935.  Struggling comedian Norman Tate passes his time rehearsing his average act with Sally, the daughter of his landlady Alice.  When Norman’s ex-wife Nellie Price moves into his lodgings it sets in motion a chain of events which changes Norman’s life forever.  A tale of humour, heartbreak and eventual redemption which demonstrates that life is indeed full of Funny Turns.

With Jeffrey Holland, Judy Buxton, Mansel David, Beth Burrows, Kenn Oldfield, Georgia Bellett and Carl Lovejoy.

Reviews

‘’A wonderful five star play. Funny, touching, beautifully realized and full of heart and truth. It’s ‘The Good Companions’ meets ‘The Entertainer’ and it’s as good as Priestley and better than Osborne. Seriously.’’
Gyles Brandreth

‘’A heart-rendingly funny play and an important piece of literature; well observed and essential for the understanding of a modern audience. Five stars.’’ 
Remotegoat

‘’It’s moving and entertaining with great writing and fabulous performances. It made me laugh and cry and it should be a major hit. See it.’’ 
Su Pollard

 ‘’A vintage piece that reflects a bygone age; delightful, funny and sad, and exactly what good theatre is all about.’’ 
forallevents.com

‘’A magical play that warms the heart and lightens the soul.’’ 
Adrian Barry, Director, The Music Hall Guild of Great Britain

2025