Peckham’s beloved Trotters have rolled into Liverpool, bringing with them the laughter, heart, and cheeky charm that made the original TV sitcom, Only Fools and Horses, a national treasure. The musical adaptation, penned by the late John Sullivan’s son Jim Sullivan and comedian Paul Whitehouse, is currently delighting audiences at the Liverpool Empire Theatre on its inaugural tour. Since opening on June 9, 2025, the show has been met with rapturous applause, culminating in a standing ovation during its finale, a testament to its enduring appeal and the cast’s spirited performances.
For those who grew up with the Trotters’ antics, the musical offers a nostalgic journey through the highs and lows of Del Boy, Rodney, and their extended family, all wrapped in a lively two-hour and twenty-minute production. It’s a feat to distill 23 years of beloved television moments into a single evening, but this adaptation manages to capture the essence of the original series while adding fresh energy and musical flair.
Sam Lupton shines as Del Boy, delivering a performance that is uncannily true to the character’s spirit. His portrayal is brimming with the character’s trademark malapropisms and entrepreneurial zest, bringing to life Del’s endless schemes and heartfelt aspirations. Newcomer Tom Major holds his own as Rodney, the younger brother caught between loyalty and frustration, while Paul Whitehouse himself takes on the role of Grandad, anchoring the family dynamic with warmth and humor.
The musical’s narrative revolves around key moments familiar to fans: Rodney preparing to marry Cassandra and the challenges of saving for their first home, Del Boy’s quest for love with Raquel, and the bickering yet loving relationship between the brothers. The production doesn’t shy away from the emotional core beneath the comedy, highlighting themes of brotherly affection, family loyalty, and community spirit that have always been central to the Trotters’ story.
Supporting the central trio is a stellar ensemble cast who bring to life other cherished characters from the sitcom. Lee VG’s Trigger is a standout, capturing the character’s lovable simplicity, while Craig Berry nails Boycie’s distinctive laugh to the delight of audiences. Nicola Munns impressively doubles as both Cassandra and Marlene, and Georgina Hagen adds warmth and vocal charm as Raquel. The show also features the likes of Denzil and Mike, ensuring that the full spectrum of Peckham’s colourful characters is represented.
Musically, the show pays homage to its roots by incorporating John Sullivan’s original TV theme tune, which opens the production and returns throughout the performance in various arrangements. The score, primarily composed by Whitehouse and Jim Sullivan with contributions from Chas Hodges of Chas and Dave fame, offers a mix of styles. While some numbers may not linger long in the memory, they effectively drive the storytelling forward. A particular highlight is the duet “Being a Villain,” performed by Peter Watts and Darryl Paul as the heavies Danny and Tony Driscoll, which infuses a playful Klezmer-like energy into the proceedings.
One of the show’s most delightful sequences is a dating agency scene featuring Lupton and Richard J Hunt as a matchmaker in a duet called “Bit of a Sort.” Lupton’s solo dance moment, reminiscent of Fred Astaire, brings a cheeky charm that resonates with the audience. The set design by Alice Power cleverly uses a revolving trio of moveable parts to transform the stage into various iconic locations such as the Trotters’ flat, the Nag’s Head pub, Sid’s Café, and Waterloo Station. Leo Flint’s animations projected onto a backdrop further enrich the storytelling, adding a dynamic cityscape that complements the live action.
Director Caroline Jay Ranger, who also oversees the upcoming Fawlty Towers musical, ensures tight pacing and sharp comedic timing throughout. The production balances humor and heart, capturing the spirit of the original show while making it accessible and entertaining for a new generation of theatre-goers.
The audience response at the Liverpool Empire has been overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the atmosphere as the happiest they’ve ever experienced in the venue. The show’s ability to evoke the feeling of sitting in a living room watching the sitcom on repeat is a testament to its faithful adaptation and the cast’s engaging performances.
Fans of the series will appreciate the careful attention to detail in the characters’ relationships and quirks. Del Boy’s cheeky flirtations with Marlene, Rodney’s awkwardness, and Grandad’s endless war stories are all lovingly portrayed. The rivalry between Del Boy and Boycie adds another layer of humor, while Trigger’s simple-mindedness provides comic relief. Cassandra’s portrayal, in particular, has been praised for its authenticity, with Nicola Munns capturing the character’s essence perfectly.
For those who have yet to experience the show, tickets remain available until June 21, 2025, offering a chance to revisit the world of Peckham’s most famous family. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the Trotters’ escapades, Only Fools and Horses the Musical promises a “lovely jubbly” night at the theatre filled with laughter, music, and a touch of nostalgia.
Looking ahead, Paul Whitehouse, who not only stars in the musical but also co-wrote it, has shared excitement about the show’s upcoming run at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre this summer. In a recent interview, he revealed that he has even gone for costume fittings for another project, the highly anticipated Harry Potter HBO series, showcasing his busy and diverse career.
As Only Fools and Horses the Musical continues to tour, it stands as a vibrant tribute to a sitcom that has shaped British comedy for decades. It’s a celebration of family, friendship, and the enduring hope that, one day, the Trotters might finally be millionaires. Until then, audiences can enjoy the ride—three wheels and all.
