They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, but the opening night of The Full Monty at The Bord Gais Energy Theatre proved that the way to a woman’s heart is without doubt through her funny bone.

The largely female audience at the theatre leapt to their feet as the production, based on the 1997 hit film, came to a close, and the cheers and whistles went on long after the final bow.

The stage adaptation is the work of Simon Beaufoy, the Oscar winning writer responsible for the original film, and it’s easy to see that the transition was handled by someone who had genuine love for these men and their stories.

The 1980’s tale about six former steelworkers with nothing to lose gets a new lease of life in recession Britain, and indeed Ireland, as the men wrestle with feelings of wounded pride, inadequacy and failure, but cast of the shackles (and their clothing) in one glorious moment of success.

Simon Beafoy’s excellent writing is ably complemented by Robert Jones's hugely impressive set – the derelict steel mill, the dole office and a working men's club the centre of most of the action.

The cast is outstanding. Craig Gazey threatens on occasion to steal the show entirely as Lomper, while the central friendship between Kenny Doughty’s Gaz and Roger Morlidge’s Dave just keeps bringing the goods.

Thatcher jokes relevant to the era and commonplace in the show took on an added element of black humour at Monday night’s opening show, but otherwise the scene could have taken place today, and it’s perhaps because of this that the show has sold out multiple venues and received rave reviews to in the UK. 

The audience left with cheeks sore from laughter and hearts full of warm and fuzzy feelings. If it’s The Chippendales you’re after, you’ll have to look elsewhere, but those out of shape bodies dressed in red leather thongs bring something far more special than perfect pecs.

 

The Full Monty runs at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre until Saturday, April 13^th. Tickets start from €20.