CIRENCESTER –based actor Jonty Stephens is looking to bring the sunshine back to his home-town when his live stage show Eric and Ern arrives for one night only at the Sundial Theatre on November 20.

The show, which stars Jonty as Eric Morecombe and fellow actor Ian Ashpitel as Ernie Wise, is an affectionate celebration of much-loved comedy duo Morecombe and Wise, and includes some of the classic TV sketches as well as undiscovered gems and original pieces written in their style.

Jonty and Ian, who met at drama school 30 years ago, are no strangers to playing Morecombe and Wise.

Their previous show, Eric and Little Ern, was first performed in Edinburgh before a small tour, which included the Sundial theatre in Cirencester.

A run at the West End followed as did an Olivier nomination.

This new show is more concert in style and is a cabaret homage to comedy greats Morecombe and Wise, performed in front of the famous curtains.

“What is great is the way the show has been received by people who loved them”, Jonty said.

“People have said it’s the nearest thing to seeing Morecombe and Wise live.

“There is an emotional connection with them. They were loved by the public and we feel a bit of that when we perform.”

As well as theatre work at the RSC and Shakespeare’s Globe, Jonty has starred on TV alongside many famous faces including Jasper Carrott and Lenny Henry.

He has also guested in shows such Life on Mars, Coronation Street and Eastenders.

But playing Eric alongside long-time friend Ian is a dream come true for Jonty. “Eric Morecombe was my hero,” he explained.

And he is thrilled to be bringing the new show to Cirencester so his home audience can get one of the first glimpses of the show.

  • Eric and Ern is the Sundial Theatre in Cirencester on Friday, November 20 at 8pm. Tickets £15/£13. To book tickets go to www.sundial-theatre.co.uk