Blimey – it’s been 30 years since The Fast Show first burst onto our screens, a fact made clear by the average age of the packed audience at The Forum Bath for this much-anticipated reunion tour. The show may now be three decades old, but a sold-out venue proved the enduring affection for the sketch-show phenomenon that gave us so many beloved characters and catchphrases, from Bob Fleming and Carl Hooper to Ron Manager, Swiss Toni and the eternally sozzled Rowley Birkin QC.
There was a small fear that the night might veer into nostalgia for nostalgia’s sake, with ageing performers trying to recreate former glories. No worries. This was inspired, quick-fire comedy delivered by a cast who remain at the top of their game.
The evening opened with Fast Show creators Charlie Higson and Paul Whitehouse. Whitehouse appeared immediately as The 13th Duke of Wybourne, slipping into character with the same effortless timing that made him a household name. The pair shared stories of the show’s origins, recalling early career misfires, collaborations with Jonathan Ross, and invaluable encouragement from Harry Enfield and Reeves and Mortimer.
Two rails of costumes stood at either side of the stage, and it didn’t take long before the characters started arriving. Ted and Ralph earned one of the biggest ovations of the night, with Ted once again trying – unsuccessfully – to persuade Ralph to accept tickets for a weekend away watching Tina Turner.
The rest of the cast soon joined the fun, with Mark Williams leading the charge and reviving the ever-popular “Suits you!” tailors. Arabella Weir, Simon Day and John Thomson followed, each sharing memories before diving into their most iconic creations.
From there the evening moved at pace. Carl Hooper offered survival tips from the outback. Professor Denzil Dexter embarked on a Jekyll-and-Hyde experiment. Dave Angel delivered his eco-warrior musings. The Checkout Girl launched not one but two new perfumes. Ron Manager delivered his trademark football ramblings, joined by Tommy and the rest of the team. And in one of the night’s biggest laughs, we were introduced to the all-new Cheesy Peas energy drink.
A touching tribute to the much-missed Caroline Aherne provided a moment of genuine emotion, warmly received by an audience who clearly still hold her performances dear.
The full cast then reunited for a gloriously shambolic finale as Jazz Club morphed into a folk-club supergroup led by Bob Fleming, bringing the evening to a triumphant close.
Thank you to The Forum Bath for hosting a wonderful night of comedy, nostalgia and sheer joy. For many of us, it felt like stepping back into the living room of the 1990s – only even funnier.
For upcoming events at The Forum Bath, go to bathforum.co.uk
