The classic play An Inspector Calls opens at the New Theatre

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An Inspector Calls…. At the New Theatre Cardiff

JB Priestley’s classic thriller makes a call at The New Theatre this week, ready to hand out some moral justice to the Birling family. In its 77th year An Inspector Calls remains starkly relevant today and continues to startle audiences across the world with its biting social commentary and depiction of the wealth divide.

The play fell out of the public consciousness for many years between the 1950’s and 60’s until a successful revival helmed by award winning Billy Elliot director, Stephen Daldry, in 1992. Since then, its popularity has rapidly bloomed, especially after being added to the UK GCSE syllabus, bringing the play to thousands of school children each year. It has been studied for decades, with some calling it a metaphorical battle between socialism and capitalism, while others see it as more of a critique of patriarchal society and its harsh treatment of lower-class women. Either way, An Inspector Calls is sure to leave you with a lot to think on, and Inspector Goole’s chilling final speech will send shivers down your spine.

Stephen Daldry’s 1992 revival was so powerful that he remains the Director of this UK tour, so we are incredibly fortunate to see the same set designs, staging and overall production that made An Inspector Calls a household name. The phenomenal sets, lighting and sound were used to incredible effect. So many of the amazing moments I wouldn’t want to spoil here if you haven’t seen the show yet, you’ll just have to trust me that this is one of the most dynamic and artistically designed productions I’ve ever seen. The symbolism of the opulent Birling’s house contrasted with the harsh war time streets of Brumley was evident and strangely beautiful to see on stage, as were the costumes of the characters and impressive special effects.[/vc_column_text][vc_gallery interval=”3″ images=”28726,28727,28728,28729″ img_size=”full”][vc_column_text]The characters of the titular drama were brought to life by an exceptional cast. Particular highlights include the inspector himself, Liam Brennan, who bought a particularly ghostly presence to the role. His final speech was delivered with such power that I had goosebumps and managed to stun the opening night audience into silence. I also loved the over the top and, at times, manic portrayal of Gerald Croft played by Simon Cotton. For me, seeing both of these bounce off the Birling family as tormentor and supposed saviour elevated the performance as a whole.

Overall, you should absolutely go and see this award winning, genre defining, thought provoking and spellbinding piece of theatre. It could just be my favourite performance I’ve ever seen at The New Theatre. It’s design is incredible, the cast were perfect and the moral lessons the play imparts are as relevant now as they were nearly 80 years ago at the shows debut. There’s a reason this play has been chosen to be studied by children across the UK and that’s because it is nothing short of superb. An easy 5 stars.[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/ZCQJt73t_W0″ align=”center”][vc_column_text]

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