The Play What I Wrote (2022) Timeline Explained – Every Event in Order

The Morecambe and Wise Legacy

The story begins with Morecambe and Wise, one of Britain's most beloved comedy duos. Each of their shows famously concluded with a series of inept plays supposedly written by a proud Ernie Wise. These sketches, known as the 'play wot I wrote', became a signature finale of their programmes.

Celebrity Guests Take the Stage

As part of the tradition, each 'play wot I wrote' featured a celebrity guest who appeared as him or herself. The guest was set up to appear, rather foolishly, as the title character of Ernie's supposedly-written play. These cameos became one of the most anticipated parts of each show.

A New Tribute Show Is Created

A new show is created as a loving homage to the classic double act, with its title drawn directly from one of Morecambe and Wise's catchphrases. The show, 'The Play What I Wrote', is designed to recreate the spirit of the duo's famous finale sketches. It is structured around the same traditions that made the originals so memorable.

Sean Writes His Own Inept Play

In the show, a character named 'Sean' writes a play that is just as inept as the ones Ernie Wise used to produce. Like his predecessor in the original duo, Sean is immensely proud of his creation. His play becomes a central element of the new show's structure.

Hamish Humours His Partner

Rather than crushing Sean's dreams, his partner 'Hamish' chooses to humour him. In the first half of the show, Sean's play is actually performed on stage in full. This allows the audience to enjoy the complete absurdity of the inept production for themselves.

When

First half of the performance

A Tight Squeeze for the Scarlet Pimple

The second half of the show consists of a 'play within a play' titled 'A Tight Squeeze for the Scarlet Pimple'. Like the rest of the production, its title is also drawn from a Morecambe and Wise catchphrase. The piece features a cameo appearance by a mystery guest star.

When

Second half of the performance

The Mystery Guest Tradition Continues

In keeping with the Morecambe and Wise antecedent, the mystery guest plays him or herself in the show. The celebrity is set up to appear, rather foolishly, as the title character of the play within a play. Each night, the identity of the mystery guest remains a surprise for the audience.

Opening Night in London

The show's London run kicks off with a star-studded opening night. Ralph Fiennes appears as the mystery guest for the inaugural performance. His cameo sets the tone for all of the celebrity appearances that follow throughout the run.

When

Opening night

Where

London

Stars Queue Up for London Appearances

Throughout the London run, a string of well-known celebrities takes a turn as the mystery guest. Among those appearing are Ewan McGregor, Bob Geldof, Cilla Black and Sue Johnston. Each star embraces the comic humiliation of playing the foolish title character.

When

During the London run

Where

London

The Show Crosses the Atlantic

After its success in London, the show transfers to Broadway. A fresh batch of stars signs up to appear as the mystery guest in front of American audiences. The transatlantic move proves that the Morecambe and Wise tribute can enchant new crowds.

Where

Broadway

Broadway's Star-Studded Guest List

The Broadway run attracts an impressive roster of famous faces. Kevin Kline, Alan Alda, Al Roker, Jeff Goldblum and Daniel Radcliffe are among those who take on the mystery guest role. Each continues the cherished tradition of appearing foolishly as the title character of the play.

When

During the Broadway run

Where

Broadway

Roger Moore's Onstage Emergency

During the Broadway run, Roger Moore suffers a heart attack onstage during a performance. The alarming incident takes place while he is appearing as the show's mystery guest. It becomes one of the most dramatic and memorable moments in the show's history.

When

During the Broadway run

Where

Broadway