Birmingham Fest is now in its third year, and as ever we’re pleased to be involved and hosting some excellent theatre here @AE Harris.

This Sunday, we have a double bill from Lucky Dog Theatre Productions. First up ‘Hats off to Laurel and Hardy’ tells the story of the lives and loves of the iconic comedy duo, told from the afterlife. From their very different beginnings to their meteoric rise to fame, the play tells their story in a funny, touching, yet bittersweet way. It details their commitment to their work, the appreciation of their fans, the love of their wives and – most enduringly – their unerring devotion to each other. In true Laurel and Hardy style there is plenty of slapstick and even some questionable dancing. Heartwarming and hilarious, this one’s not to be missed.

Following on from Laurel and Hardy, Lucky Dog brings us ‘Mr Merrick, The Elephant Man’. Joseph Merrick (The Elephant Man) is possibly the most famous ‘freak’ in history. Many stage plays and the popular film have told a romantic and often fictional account of his story. ‘Mr Merrick, The Elephant Man’ promises to be the first play to actually only deal with the known facts about Merrick’s final years in The London Hospital, Whitechapel and his complicated relationship with his doctor, Frederick Treves. Painstakingly researched and written with the support of Merrick’s biographer, expect to be enlightened and moved by the stirring true story of ‘the most remarkable creature ever to draw breath’.

These have been sell-out shows at other venues, so book tickets now to avoid disappointment!