Victoria Wood's dinnerladies Manchester stage premiere

More than a quarter of a century after it was first screened on BBC One, a new stage adaptation of Victoria Wood's TV sitcom dinnerladies will premiere at Manchester Opera House in the New Year (January 26-February 6).

Starring Les Dennis (Coronation Street, Only Fools and Horses The Musical), the new show features a storyline inspired by the original sitcom episodes and characters.

Originally created, written and starring the late, great comedian and writer, dinnerladies ran for two series and only 16 episodes, between 1998-2000, but won a shower of critical and public applause and a devoted audience, and remains a much-repeated TV series.

Set in the canteen of a fictional Manchester factory, it followed the lives, friendships and workplace dramas of the staff and regulars who gathered there every day. This new adaptation will feature all the characters that made the show a British classic, including Bren, Tony, Dolly, Anita, Jean, Twinkle, Philippa and Stan.

The Victoria Wood Estate says it is "delighted to be bringing the joy of Victoria Wood’s much-loved classic back to the nation."

Les Dennis said: “I’m lucky enough to say I knew Victoria; she and I performed on the comedy circuit in the 1970s and were both finalists on New Faces.

"I was always such a fan of hers, both as a person and as a comedic voice. Being part of this tour and seeing these beloved characters on stage is a perfect way to keep her legacy alive.

"I’m the first cast member to be announced - as Stan - and can’t wait to see which fantastic actresses will be bringing these amazing characters back to life. They're all such fantastic roles; I think fans of Victoria will be in for a real treat.”

Other northern dates on the tour are Venue Cymru, Llandudno (February 9-13, 2027); York Grand Opera House (February 23-27); Stockton Globe (March 9-13); Blackpool Opera House (March 31-April 3); Hull New Theatre (April 13-17); Leeds Grand (June 29-July 3); Liverpool Empire (July 13-17) and Sheffield City Hall (July 27-31).

More info and tickets here