JEROME Flynne stars as Tommy Cooper in the world premier of Cooper! Not Like That Like This, a brand new play written and created by John Fisher, which opens at Malvern Theatres today (Wednesday) before transferring to the West End, Garrick Theatre in April.

Cooper! Not Like That Like This is a celebration of the life and talent of the great British comedy genius that was Tommy Cooper. His unique eccentric, deceptively simple humour brought a little magic into British comedy - and now this remarkable celebration brings the much loved entertainer vividly to life.

All the familiar trademarks are here: the fez, the laugh, the hats, the bottle and the glass - all brought to life aided by six dancing girls.

But the play also takes us behind the scenes where we meet the troubled perfectionist, whose energy and anxieties were the driving force behind this genial giant who died the most public of deaths in live television before an audience of millions.

Jerome Flynne is best known for his portrayal of Paddy Garvey in Soldier Soldier and for the number one hit Unchained Melody that he made with former co-star Robson Green. His theatre work includes plays with the RSC, the Young Vic and Royal Court.

The play is directed by Simon Callow, who will be remembered by Malvern audiences for his outstanding performance in The Mystery of Charles Dickens in 2001 and also for his roles in the hugely successful films Four Weddings and a Funeral, Shakespeare in Love and A Room with a View. The spectacular dance routines are devised by Lionel Blair (Who Killed Agatha Christie 2002). Cooper! Not Like That Like This truly promises to be the theatrical sensation of the year - not to be missed!

Cooper! Not Like That Like This plays in the Festival Theatre, Malvern, until March 15. Tickets £12 - £20 and the box offices number is 01684 892277.