Buckinghamshire actor hails 10 years of The Play That Goes Wrong

Henry Lewis, co-writer of The Play That Goes Wrong, is celebrating the show's remarkable 10-year run in the West End, having opened at the Duchess Theatre in September 2014. The comedy, which features a university drama company attempting to stage a 1920s Agatha Christie murder mystery, has been performed over 3,500 times and has seen 106 actors take the stage. It has garnered 11 prestigious awards, including an Olivier, a Tony, and a Molière. Initially performed at a small fringe theatre, the creators did not anticipate the show's success. However, after refining the production during runs at the Edinburgh Festival and a national tour, it was ready for the West End. The immersive experience begins as soon as the audience enters the theatre, with the stage manager searching for a missing dog and the director engaging with the audience. The humor in the play is characterized by farce, slapstick, and visual gags, making it appealing to a wide range of audiences. Lewis attributes the show's longevity to its universal humor and relatability, as it captures the essence of live performance and the chaos that can ensue. The play's premise allows for mistakes to blend seamlessly into the performance, often leaving audiences unaware of any mishaps. As the show continues to thrive, it has been licensed for performances in over 50 countries, showcasing its global appeal. The creators' journey from a small theatre to the West End exemplifies the unpredictable nature of theatre and the joy of shared laughter across generations.