A new production of a much-loved play promises laughter, heart, and many unforgettable, eye-catching moments when it comes to the North East.

The Full Monty is heading to Newcastle Theatre Royal on Tuesday, February 27 until Saturday, March 2.

The new production of the award-winning play features familiar TV favourites Danny Hatchard (EastEnders), Jake Quickenden (X Factor, I’m A Celebrity…) and Bill Ward (Emmerdale, Coronation Street).

The Northern Echo: A scene from The Full Monty

Newcastle Theatre Royal caught up with the cast to chat about bringing the production across the country and why this heart-warming comedy is still relevant to audiences today.

There are no heroes in Simon Beaufoy’s heartfelt play, just a group of lads trying to regain their dignity and pride.

The Northern Echo: There are no heroes in Simon Beaufoy’s heartfelt play, just a group of lads trying to regain

Bill Ward said: “There are so many things in this play that resonate today. Simon Beaufoy, the writer, came to see us during rehearsals, and he was very clear it wasn’t a comedy at all. 'A play with jokes', is how he described it.

“It is of course very funny indeed, but the comedy actually comes from the very real tragedy that all these characters are facing in their lives… different circumstances, different starting points, but real grief and tragedy nevertheless.”

This quick witted and fast-paced play is still very much of our time, as the country is hit by a cost of living crisis.

The Northern Echo: A scene from The Full Monty

Danny Hatchard added: “Is there a more iconic working-class comedy than The Full Monty? I’d argue not. Especially one that covers so many incredibly important topics that are still very relevant today… Fathers’ rights, depression, suicide, impotence, homosexuality, unemployment, body image.

“Tackling important subjects like these whilst adding a sprinkle of nostalgia and a dash of humour takes the audience on a two-hour emotional rollercoaster filled with tears and belly laughter. This show is not only a cocktail of excellence, but also hugely relatable to both men and women.”

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Gaz and his mates are down on their luck and feel they have been thrown on the scrap heap, but they are determined to fight back and bare a little more than they ever thought they would have to.

As in the 1997 smash hit film, this brand-new production is a rollercoaster ride of ups and downs, laughs and heartbreak. Celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the film on a major national tour. 

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As the cast look forward to their tour Jake Quickenden said: “I don’t want to sound cliché but literally everyone is so close. Usually, you get little cliques growing but we all genuinely get on so well, and because a lot of the scenes include all of us, we just have a laugh and get closer and closer every day.”

The Full Monty is having a resurgence, with the Disney+ spin-off series and with the new touring production, fans of the show have plenty to look forward to this month.

This fast and funny play, still very much of our time, showcases friendship, resilience and the power of self-discovery.

The Northern Echo:

A poignant tale full of mishaps, and a nostalgic soundtrack featuring 80s and 90s classics, The Full Monty was an audience favourite when it last visited Newcastle in 2019 and promises once again to be a rollercoaster ride of laughs and heartbreak.

The Full Monty plays Newcastle Theatre Royal Tuesday February 27 until Saturday, March 2 2024.

Tickets can be purchased at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 0191 232 7010.