Darlington Hippodrome What The Butler Saw 

LONDON CLASSIC THEATRE TO BRING JOE ORTON FARCE TO DARLINGTON HIPPODROME

London Classic Theatre has announced the full cast for their UK tour of Joe Orton’s farce What
The Butler Saw which comes to Darlington Hippodrome in June. The cast is made up of 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).

Artistic Director of London Classic Theatre, Michael Cabot said today, “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.”

London Classic theatre has wowed Darlington audiences with previous productions at Darlington
Hippodrome of Boeing Boeing and, most recently, Abigail’s Party.

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.

This document was classified as: OFFICIAL

What The Butler Saw is a most ambitious play, manic farce and masterclass in fearless comic
writing. No institution, political view or tradition is safe, as Orton explores comic territory few
playwrights have dared to visit.

What The Butler Saw runs at Darlington Hippodrome from Tuesday 18 to Saturday 22 June. For
more information or to book visit darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk or call the Box Office on 01325
405405.