Funny Woman

Barbara lands a dream role in a new TV comedy, but news from home on the eve of the show threatens to derail her opportunity, forcing her into an impossible decision.

Barbara is not easily defeated, and she wins the chance to prove herself in a TV sitcom audition.

Barbara bonds with the creative team - producer Dennis Mahindra, writers Tony and Bill - although the star, Clive Richardson, is less certain.

The writers like her natural wit and skewed way of seeing the world and elements of Barbara from Blackpool find their way into the script.

Dennis is delighted - he's always hoped to find someone like her - comedy wise. After a nail-biting wait, they get the green light from boss Ted Sargent to make the pilot and Barbara - or as they know her - Sophie Straw - is poised to perform live in front of a studio audience. But on the eve of the show news from home derails her and she is forced to make an impossible decision. Will she return to Blackpool and her ailing father George - or seize her moment in London?