The production will open its UK tour at the Devonshire Park Theatre, Eastbourne from the 23rd to the 27th April.
Full casting has been announced for the upcoming UK tour of London Classic Theatre’s production of Joe Orton’s play.
Michael Cabot, the founder and Artistic Director of London Classic Theatre, directs: Alex Cardall (Nicholas Beckett), John Dorney (Doctor Prentice), Alana Jackson (Geraldine Barclay), Jack Lord (Doctor Rance), Jon-Paul Rowden (Sergeant Match) and Holly Smith (Mrs Prentice).
Within his private psychiatric clinic, Doctor Prentice is interviewing a new secretary. Geraldine wants the position but seems underqualified and uncertain about her parentage. Mrs Prentice appears, flushed and in urgent need of a drink, following an illicit encounter at the Station Hotel. In the meantime, Doctor Rance, a Government Inspector and Sergeant Match, a policeman, arrive amidst increasing chaos with searching questions of their own.
What The Butler Saw was Joe Orton’s final play and first premiered at Queen’s Theatre on 27 January 1969. This production will visit 16 venues concluding the tour at Civic Theatre, Chelmsford on 27th July.
Talking about the production
Michael Cabot said, “I’m delighted to be directing What The Butler Saw. I’ve always been a massive admirer of Joe Orton’s work and this play in particular. It’s undeniably a ground-breaking, challenging piece. Orton was firmly into his stride as a playwright and determined to push boundaries. Primarily, it’s a brilliantly constructed farce, but it also explores territory that allows Orton’s wicked sense of humour free reign. No one is safe! The play was first performed at the end of the 1960s, causing something of an outcry, so it will be fascinating to see what audiences make of it in 2024. I’m very excited to be working with an ensemble of terrific actors, most of whom are making their LCT debuts. And our fabulous creative team, Designer Bek Palmer and Lighting Designer Hector Murray, are in the process of creating a unique visual feast for our audiences.”
The creative team behind the production includes: Set and Costume Design: Bek Palmer; Lighting Designer Hector Murray; Sound Design: Chris Drohan; Production Manager: Helen Samways; Videographer: Paul Keeley-Sandys; Producer: Kathryn Cabot.
To find out more visit: http://londonclassictheatre.co.uk/2024/02/21/what-the-butler-saw/