4 out of 5 stars

What makes a comedian a true comedian? That’s the question at the heart of Paul Hendy’s “The Last Laugh,” a mostly engaging play that’s imagines what it would be like if three legendary British funnymen gathered for, well, a last laugh. The work is strongest when it explores different archetypes, from the joke teller who frets over every word to the physical comedian whose body language tells all. It’s less successful when it gets into biographical detail and bittersweet reminiscence. The trio of actors — Damian Williams, Simon Cartwright and Bob Golding — pack a powerful punch in any case. — Charles Passy

At 59E59 Theaters as part of the Brits Off Broadway festival, through May 25, 2025; 59e59.org. (Review date: May 4, 2025.)