Eric and Ern at Curve Theatre, Leicester Review
Written by Hollie and Emmie for Theatre and Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
Bringing sunshine, laughter, and an enjoyable evening to Curve’s Studio Theatre in Leicester are Ian Ashpitel and Jonty Stephens, who take on playing homage to British comedy giants Eric Morecambe and Ernie Wise in Eric and Ern. The world of entertainment and comedy just isn’t what it used to be, and an evening of classic catchphrases, musical numbers and many jokes takes you back to a bygone era. Making its debut at the Edinburgh Fringe before additional runs in the West End and on a P&O cruise ship, it was exactly what was needed for a cold and dark January evening.
The dynamic duo, Ian and Jonty, have a natural bounce between them as they play with these distinctive characters. Their camaraderie was what made this show a success, as they clearly demonstrated the work behind building this show around the Northern comedians. Entertaining audiences at home throughout the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, Morecambe and Wise rose to fame after initially appearing as separate acts on a variety of hugely popular shows, before coming together at the BBC for their most celebrated programme, The Morecambe and Wise Show. The portrayals of Eric and Ernie feel honest and familiar, serving as a true testament to how perfectly these two performers have developed the piece over time.
Many audience members in the theatre have memories of watching the show on TV with their families and, therefore, were expecting certain jokes and moments to happen. Sketches like Mr Memory and the infamous punchline "He's not going to sell many ice creams going at that speed!” received uproarious laughter from this audience.
Adding another dynamic and wonderful addition to the evening performance was Olivia Fines, a local Leicestershire singer and actor who acts as Eric and Ern’s special guest on their show. She dazzles the audience with her glittering dresses and beautiful singing voice, and she really adds something to the show. She was a superb choice and addition to the show.
The set and costumes are simple, which allows the actors to shine and take centre stage. With the inclusion of puppets, pianos, and even some musical instruments, this is a true variety show that adds a little bit of everything to the performance, just as Morecambe and Wise did during their famous show.
Our favourite parts of the evening were the ad hoc and improvised moments, where Ian and Jonty added their off-the-cuff jokes. The inclusion of two volunteer members of the audience for a large part of the second act also added some great comedy moments, and there was a lot of tittering and laughter from the audience.
Depending on your prior knowledge of Morecambe and Wise’s work, you will either really connect and understand this show, or you may leave feeling that some of the jokes don’t particularly hit the nail with you - but that really is part of the charm in this production. Eric and Ern is a laugh-out-loud slice of comedy history celebrating the timeless genius of Morecambe and Wise.
This production of Eric and Ern continues at Curve’s Studio Theatre in Leicester until Saturday 17th January 2026 before it concludes its UK tour at London’s Garrick Theatre on Sunday 29th March 2026.
★★★★
