THE outcome of a legal case brought by the television production company responsible for the BBC classic Only Fools and Horses has forced the cancellation of a tribute show due to be staged at Barnard Castle’s arts centre next month.
However, the good news for those planning to see Phoney Fools and Horses on September 23, is that a Fawlty Towers tribute show has been lined up in its place.
Officials at That’s Entertainment Productions, the company behind Phoney Fools and Horses say they were “devastated” at having to shelve the show.
The move was prompted by a legal case brought earlier in the year by Shazam, the television production company founded by Only Fools’ late writer John Sullivan and centred on who owns the copyright to the characters from a fictional work, and whether it is possible to in effect produce new Only Fools And Horses material without permission from the author of the original scripts.
The judgement found in favour of the production company, but the decision is going to appeal.
A spokesman for That’s Entertainment Productions said: “Following a recent court judgement against worldwide Only Fools and Horses tribute shows, we are devastated that we are prevented from bringing our popular show.
“Whilst this judgment awaits appeal, we are thrilled that we can offer our alternative and well-loved production of Phoney Towers.”
Phoney Fools and Horses ticket holders have been informed of the situation and offered tickets to Phoney Towers
“As a tribute to Fawlty Towers, this will feature the same talented cast in a whole range of hilarious characters,” added the spokesman.
Based around the classic 1970s TV show, Phoney Towers is a tribute show performed in the style and variety of Fawlty Towers.
Producers promise “all your favourite characters in new adventures and mishaps, and some unexpected surprise guests.”
The That’s Entertainment Productions spokesman added: “Our show is inspired by the classic BBC comedy Fawlty Towers.
“Please note, that the content of our show is entirely original, and no use is made of the scripts or other materials from the TV programmes.
“We are not linked to or authorised in any way by the BBC or others involved in the TV programmes” .
Details of Phoney Towers, which is suitable for ages 12-plus, are available at www.thewitham.org.uk.
