Joe Orton’s final play What the Butler Saw is set to show at Theatre Royal Windsor next week.
In his private psychiatric clinic, Doctor Prentice (John Dorney) is interviewing a new secretary.
Geraldine (Alana Jackson) wants the position but seems underqualified and uncertain about her parentage.
Mrs Prentice (Holly Smith) looks flushed and in urgent need of a drink, following an illicit encounter at the Station Hotel.
In the meantime, Doctor Rance (Jack Lord), a Government Inspector and Sergeant Match (Jon-Paul Rowden), a policeman, arrive amidst rising chaos with searching questions of their own.
No institution, tradition or political view is safe, as Orton explores comic territory few playwrights have dared to visit.
Joe Orton was born in Leicester in 1933 and during his career, he shocked, outraged and delighted audiences with his comedies, including Loot and Entertaining Mr Sloane.
What the Butler Saw, Orton’s final play, premiered at Queen’s Theatre on January 27, 1969.
London Classic Theatre’s new tour opens this week at Devonshire Park Theatre, Eastbourne on 24 April and arrives and arrives at Windsor’s Theatre Royal from Tuesday, May 7 to Saturday, May 11.
Michael Cabot, artistic director of London Classic Theatre, 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.”
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