Gangster Comedy Barking in Essex, Starring Lee Evans & Sheila Hancock, Headed to the West End

British comedian Lee Evans and stage star Sheila Hancock will lead the West End world premiere of Barking in Essex, a new black comedy by Clive Exton, according to U.K.’s Daily Mail. Directed by Harry Burton, the production will begin performances at the Wyndham’s Theatre on September 6, 2013. An official opening night is set for September 16.

Barking in Essex tells the story of Algie Parker, the most notorious gangster in Essex. As he comes home to collect his money—over 3 million pounds in untraceable notes—there’s something his family has forgotten to mention. In order to keep Algie from finding out the secret, his family must figure out a way to hide it before his arrival. Evans will star as Algie’s brother Darnley, while Hancock will play their mother, Emmie Packer.

Evans starred in The Producers in the West End. His film and TV credits include The World of Lee Evans, There's Something About Mary, So What Now?, Brooms, Funny Bones, The Fifth Element and MouseHunt. Evans is also a well known stand-up comedian—he played to a crowd of 10,108 at London's Manchester Arena in 2005, breaking the world record for a comedy solo act with the largest audience.

Hancock’s London stage credits include Breath of Spring, Sister Act and The Last of the Duchess. Her film and TV credits include The Rag Trade, Now Take My Wife, The Bed-Sit Girl, The Girl on the Boat, Carry On Cleo, The Anniversary and Three Men and a Little Lady.