Preview: An Inspector Calls, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton

Preview: An Inspector Calls, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton

Stephen Daldry’s multi award-winning National Theatre production of J B Priestley’s classic thriller, An Inspector Calls, returns to Mayflower Theatre from 1 to 5 November 2022.

Written at the end of the Second World War and set before the First, An Inspector Calls is a compelling and haunting thriller.

When Inspector Goole arrives unexpectedly at the prosperous Birling family home, their peaceful dinner party is shattered by his investigations into the death of a young woman.

His startling revelations shake the very foundations of their lives and challenge us all to examine our consciences. More relevant now than ever, this is a must-see for a whole new generation.

This production is now 30 years old and yet still as popular as ever.

Evlyne Oyedokun, who plays Sheila Birling, says: “The fact that is has three timelines helps it to stay timeless and engaging.

“You’ve got 1912, which is where the play is set, then you’ve got the future, which is the Blitz, 1945, and then you’ve also got the current now, 2022.

“It’s amazing. You’re flicking through the past, present and the now constantly, and it’s so reflective on humanity so it makes it so relevant, and people can really see themselves.”

“At the end of the day, at its centre it’s a play about somebody in distress,” adds George Rowland, who plays Eric Birling.

“And that doesn’t get old, does it?

“I think at different points in time when we’ve put it on over the last 30 years, it’s been relevant. And this time around I think it’s more relevant than ever because of what’s going on in terms of the strike action and housing crisis.”

An Inspector Calls has won a total of 19 major awards, including four Tony Awards and three Olivier Awards, and has played to more than 5 million theatre-goers worldwide.

Tickets for An Inspector Calls (1 – 5 November) are on sale at mayflower.org.uk or 02380 711811.

 

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