A play, first staged on Broadway in the 1970s, will combine comedy with the touching story of two friends, when it arrives in Ilford.

Redbridge Stage Company presents Neil Simon’s smash hit play, The Sunshine Boys, following the lives of kings of comedy, Willie Clark and Al Lewis, who have not spoken to each other in years.

When broadcaster CBS call to try to reunite them for a nostalgic history of comedy show, past grudges resurface as they take centre stage once more.

Director Christine Keates, who has been involved in the theatre since 1974, said: “What I love about this show is the rapid fire dialogue.

“I don’t think anyone in the cast has seen either the film or the stage show before, so this is a fresh interpretation of the story.

“The Sunshine Boys is a very touching play about getting older. The audience can expect a very entertaining evening out with lots of laughs and visual gags but with real life characters you can relate to.”

Christine added: “Ian Brown and Peter Beadle, who haven’t performed together at the Kenneth More Theatre for years, are reuniting to take part in this production and chose this play in particular as long ago as last year.

“I am thrilled they are back together and it gives a nice parallel to the story itself.”

n The Sunshine Boys will be at the Kenneth More, Oakfield Road, Ilford from tomorrow (Thursday) until Saturday. To book tickets call 020 8553 4466 or visit www.kmtheatre.co.uk.