The ‘Sitcom Experience’ LIVE
Basil Fawlty & Co – The Comedy Dinner Show
Laughlines Ltd has complained to Ofcom that the BBC has breached UK competition law and manipulated the commercial market by creating a dominant position for an Australian ‘Fawlty Towers’ show.
As the owner of the copyright in the final recorded version of its TV programme and the protected trademark, the BBC was made aware in 2004 of an original British ‘Fawlty Towers’ tribute act, which established itself in the UK as the original ‘Leading British No.1 tribute’.
In 2008 the BBC provided exclusive publicity for the UK launch of an Australian ‘Fawlty Towers’ show for its debut at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, which was broadcast on the BBC ‘One Show’. The shows Australian performer, Alison Pollard Mansergh has told the press of the BBC’s support stating “The BBC have watched the show and supported us greatly”
In 2014, the BBC suddenly informed Laughlines Ltd that a licence was now required to advertise the original British No.1 ‘Fawlty Towers’ tribute act to audiences and no licence was available, causing it to be withdrawn from the market. The BBC cleared the path for the Australian ‘Fawlty Towers’ show and its performer to establish a dominant position in the UK market.
The Australian ‘Fawlty Towers’ show is now marketed to be the ‘original’ and No.1 Tribute Act’ and does not advertise any licence permissions.
We would be grateful for your support by signing our petition to urge Ofcom to hold the BBC to account – http://chng.it/GFcWhmFV6T
“We note the following instances of unauthorised use of ‘Fawlty Towers’. ‘We ask that you immediately address the unauthorised use of ‘Fawlty Towers’
BBC to Laughlines Ltd – 13th February 2015
‘The BBC is not under any obligation to disclose the reasons for its enforcement strategy’
BBC to Laughlines Ltd – 5th May 2015
‘Why has the BBC never asked us about the BBC’s correspondence with us since 2004’?
Laughlines to BBC – 15th January 2020
‘We will not be responding to further correspondence’
BBC to Laughlines – 21st January 2020
It’s hours of non-stop fun and comedy all the way, with people laughing so much they end up in tears
Yorkshire PostThe Laughlines Tribute night is pure gold!
Metro - NewspaperThe Dinner Show is a hit
Harrogate AdvertiserA laugh from start to finish
Stray FMOutstanding event, thoroughly enjoyed by all. The cast engaged the audience and had them in stitches!
Swan Yacht Club, Perth, AustraliaThis show promises a perfect night of interactive comedy as well as a great meal, one of the most enjoyable dining experiences you will ever have!
Audience Reviews
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Basil & Co
Basil & Co.
Basil & Co.
Basil & Co.
Basil & Company
Basil & Co.
This show promises a perfect night of interactive comedy as well as a great meal, one of the most enjoyable dining experiences you will ever have!
