The Full Monty stage show begins with the rusted frame of an abandoned steel mill, former workers remembering the jobs they took such pride in, and ends in an explosion of blue confetti and a joyful strip dance.

Such contrast sums the play up nicely- tragedy and comedy, triumph against the grinding reality of layoffs and a life in limbo.

The brilliant production, which is playing at Canterbury’s Marlowe theatre this week, is based on the incredibly popular 1997 film of the same name, about a group of Sheffield men who form a stripping group in a bid to make money after losing their jobs at the mill.

EastEnders and Our Girl actor Danny Hatchard plays Gaz, who has turned to stealing from his former workplace to make enough money to pay maintenance support for his son, Nathan.

All Creatures Great and Small actor Neil Hurst is his best friend and former crane operator Dave, at sea after losing a position which gave him standing, security and a place in the world.

Dave reluctantly goes along with Gaz’s plan to form a stripping troupe, recruiting security guard Lumper (Nicholas Prasad), former steel works manager Gerald (Bill Ward), and Horse (Ben Onwukwe), who has arthritis and the best moves of the lot.

X Factor and reality TV star Jake Quickenden completes their crew as builder and hairdresser Guy.

The chemistry between the characters is the highlight of the show. Their interactions are funny, warm and natural.

The animosity between Gerald and Gaz, which turns to friendship, is played with poignancy and its heartwarming to see their relationship transform.

Despite the gloomy backdrop, this show is so much fun and comes with dollops of nostalgia- the men dancing to nineties tunes and watching Flashdance for inspiration.

Hatchard is wonderful as Gaz, playing him with empathy and swagger, so that you warm to him even when he makes questionable choices. Cass Dempsey plays his son Nathan with charisma but also vulnerability, worried his dad could end up in jail again.

Quickenden brings charm and spark to Guy, but also emotional heft when needed.

My only critique is that sometimes I felt the scenes went on for too long, and lines could have been cut, but this is a small quibble.

The Full Monty is hilarious and heart-warming, and the final scene will have you whooping and cheering, rooting for characters you’ve got to know so well.

The Full Monty plays at the Marlowe until Saturday, April 13.