The acclaimed stage adaptation of the classic British sitcom Fawlty Towers has been issued with a so-called 'woke warning' ahead of its national tour. Leeds Heritage Theatre, where the show is playing, has posted a detailed trigger alert for potential audience members.
What Does the Content Warning Say?
The advisory on the theatre's website explicitly lists: 'Triggers and advisories: Violence, strong language, adult themes, controversial topics, gun shots, smoking, smoke and fire.' As a result, the venue has instituted an age limit, recommending the production only for those aged 14 and over. This marks a shift from earlier guidance which simply suggested it was unsuitable for under-fives.
The stage show, which sold out during a successful West End run, weaves together plots and iconic moments from three classic TV episodes: 'The Hotel Inspectors', 'The Germans', and 'Communication Problems'. It was adapted for the stage by the sitcom's original creator and star, John Cleese, now 86, alongside director Caroline Jay Ranger.
Cleese's Take on Modern Sensitivities
This is not the first time the Fawlty Towers brand has encountered modern content warnings. The episode 'The Germans' was temporarily removed from BBC streaming services and later reinstated with an alert in 2020.
Interestingly, John Cleese himself has spoken in favour of such advisories. In an interview with LBC's Nick Ferrari, he stated: "I’m all in favour of warnings. Everyone is super sensitive at the moment... If you’re going to have people getting upset about things, just tell them 'you might get upset about things'." He characterised the practice as throwing a "small bone" to current sensitivities, which he believes will pass.
Broader Criticism of BBC Comedy
Cleese's comments on warnings come amidst his broader and repeated criticism of the BBC's approach to comedy development. He has lambasted the corporation's "bureaucrats" for stifling creativity, claiming they are "not very good at humour" and operate through ineffective committees.
He told LBC: "In the case of the BBC, there isn’t the executive understanding of how to nurture comedy, which is why there’s not much great comedy these days." Cleese has been unequivocal in stating that fans will not see new work from him on the BBC, the original home of Fawlty Towers.
Despite the advisory notices, the stage show's popularity appears undimmed. Following rave reviews and a sold-out London engagement, it is now set to visit major cities across the UK and Ireland, proving the enduring appeal of Basil Fawlty's chaotic hotel management, warnings and all.
