Frankie Howerd can rightly be described as one of Britain's best-loved comedians.

A trailblazer in his own way, his courage and innovation as a performer have often been obscured by cosy nostalgia. In fact, his surreal brand of comedy predated comics such as The Goons, Python and Eddie Izzard.

Howerd's End is a two-handed play that explores both the development of Frankie's comedy, and the clandestine union which made it all possible: his extraordinary 40-year relationship with his lover, friend and anchor Dennis Heymer, whose existence was strictly guarded from the public in Frankie's lifetime.

Howerd's End is a piercingly honest love story about a relationship that tried to defy every odd – including death. An opportunity to learn more about the man and his secrets – as well as see him in full flight stand up mode.

"I knew Dennis, and I wrote for Frankie – and this play is brilliant" – Barry Cryer

Writer Mark Farrelly plays Dennis, with Simon Cartwright as Frankie.

The play will be coming to the Cron Exchange in Dorchester on Saturday, January 28

Full details and tickets are available at www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/whats-on