Wisdom of a Fool - New Wolsey Theatre

Wisdom of a Fool

No performance info available


Presented by Engine Shed & David Phillips

In this emotional roller coaster one-man play Jack Lane takes you behind Norman Wisdom’s well-known character to reveal a tough and lonely childhood. After joining the Army he discovers a passion for comedy and begins to perfect an act that would go on to shape his unique style. The world of post-war Music Hall and Variety embraces Norman’s manic slapstick routine catapulting him to stardom in the early 1950s. Success on the silver screen including the hit song, Don’t Laugh at Me, seals his fame. But fame comes at a price...

Jack plays 30 characters throughout this tour de force performance. The Gump costume that features in the play belonged to Norman and has been generously loaned to the production by his son and daughter, Nicholas and Jacqueline Wisdom.

Reviews of Wisdom of a Fool

What the press say


“An incredible performance from this super talented man who you really believe is Wisdom” ★★★★★

Leicester Mercury

“I believe through Wisdom of a Fool, Norman Wisdom will become familiar to a whole new generation.” ★★★★★

Theatre South East

“Lane is simply unbelievable as Wisdom: he can do it all, the voice, the physicality and above all, the character.”

David Benson | Actor & Writer (Think No Evil of Us)

What the public say

Jack Lane is OUSTANDING in this brilliantly told life story of Norman Wisdom. If you 'laughed out loud' to this British comedic treasure in your youth or are just curious to experience a tale well told, you MUST se this show. Emotional, thought provoking, funny, this one man show had me believing Norman was on the stage before us. Why on earth hasn't this show transferred to the West End? Catch it here in Ipswich on the 26th Feb - you will not regret it.

Terry Baxter

A brilliant tour-de-force performance by Jack Lane as Norman Wisdom and 30 other characters! I made around trip of 200 miles to see this fantastic show in Margate and was SO glad I did! Now you've got the chance to see it in Ipswich, before it goes into London, I strongly recommend that you book for this theatrical treat!

John Orchard

Such an incredible show. Really not one to be missed. Jack lane truly epitomises Norman in every way, the play will have you in the edge of your seat, through a rollercoaster of emotions. Go see it, you will not be disappointed!

G. Devlin

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