IT would be impossible for any actor to emulate the achievements of the original cast of Rising Damp.

How can you, bearing in mind the terrific ensemble was led by comic genius Leonard Rossiter?

But the cast of the stage show, currently playing at The Lowry, certainly capture the essence of the sitcom’s characters and Stephen Chapman is particularly good value as skin flint landlord Rigsby, the role Rossiter immortalised in the TV series.

Chapman has the mannerisms of this slippery customer down to a tee and we feel for the sultry spinster Miss Jones (Amanda Hadingue) as he tries to seduce her with a piece of African “love wood.”

As always in the TV version, Rigsby has been tricked by Philip (Cornelius McCarthy) who is just far too clever for the man who just can’t stop sticking his nose into other people’s business. Alan, medical student, Philip’s house mate, can’t resist the temptation to join in the fun.

Go and see this you won’t leave The Lowry with aching sides but Eric Chappell’s script is still a masterly piece of work and very entertaining on the ears. The set’s good, too.

This production is directed by Don Warrington, Philip in the original Rising Damp. When I interviewed him a few years ago he wouldn’t talk about his time on what is for me, a classic British sitcom. Strange that. Enjoy.

* Until June 1. The box office on 0843 208 6000. Star rating - ***