Keith Waterhouse Book order

Original research shines a light on the little discussed midget class submarines, from their WW2 inception to the unique and short-lived Stickleback class, developed in the Cold War

Set in a faded Brighton hotel lounge, the story unfolds around Mr. Black and Mr. White as they navigate a web of mistaken identities during a secretive weekend. Their attempts to conceal the truth lead to a comedic chaos where no one knows who anyone else is. In the second act, the male characters reflect on the events, suggesting that if their roles had been reversed, the confusion could have been avoided. The play features a dynamic interplay between two men and two women, exploring themes of identity and misunderstanding.

The narrative explores complex relationships as a wife, hurt by her husband's affair with a teenage mistress, retaliates by orchestrating clandestine encounters for a neighbor with similar desires. This story delves into themes of infidelity, revenge, and the intricate dynamics between two couples, revealing how betrayal can lead to unexpected alliances and confrontations. The interplay of emotions and moral dilemmas creates a compelling backdrop for the characters' intertwined lives.

The stage musical adaptation captures the whimsical adventures of Worzel Gummidge, a lovable yet mischievous scarecrow. With familiar characters like Aunt Sally and Sergeant Beetroot, the story unfolds as Worzel's antics lead him to a scarecrow court facing a serious charge. The narrative blends humor and chaos, culminating in a joyous resolution featuring a giant birthday cake that caters to Worzel's insatiable appetite. This production showcases a diverse cast, with 5 women and 13 men, ensuring a vibrant theatrical experience.

Set against the backdrop of a chaotic children's birthday party, the story explores the intertwining lives of Robin, Emma, and their friends. As Robin grapples with his separation from Emma, she finds solace in her growing friendship with her solicitor, Tom. The party's disruptions reveal the complexities of adult relationships, with the antics of the children impacting the adults' emotions. Ultimately, the event brings a sense of hope and potential reconciliation for Robin and Emma amidst the turmoil.

The story unfolds in two parts, showcasing a family's contrasting experiences during a wedding and a funeral. The comedic narrative begins with the joyous preparations for a wedding, followed by the somber return from Uncle Arthur's funeral six months later. Uncle Arthur, a beloved character, serves as the connecting thread between these events, highlighting themes of love, loss, and family dynamics. The cast features a balanced mix of seven women and seven men, adding to the comedic ensemble.

June Pepper finds there is more to life than death in this touching, sensitive and funny exploration of bereavement from the creator of Jeffrey Bernard is Unwell and Billy Liar.

A tour de force from the author of Jeffrey Bernard is Unwell and Billy Liar.

'There is a Happy Land' tells of the events of a few weeks in the life of a small boy on a north county council estate and the rhubarb fields, quarries and Cleark of Works' yard that are his playground. Unlike most boys portrayed in fiction he is not an ultrasensitive soul but an ordinary boy, occasionally cowardly, sometimes a liar, tough in his own eyes and often insecure in his dealings with others. In his evocation of the jingles, games, fantasies and nightmares of childhood, Waterhouse brings his tribe of street urchins so vividly to life that the book has taken on the status of a much-loved classic.

As Billy's job at the undertakers becomes increasingly boring, his lies become increasingly outrageous, which starts to get him in serious trouble. Full of hilarious characters and touching moments, Keith Waterhouse's adaptation of his own novel remains a modern classic.