"Orton was often described as the enfant terrible of London in the late 1960s, a time when attitudes were becoming more relaxed and the world was becoming more permissive. Orton was at the forefront of this revolution and the most interesting thing to note about this play now, is that in some ways, attitudes have gone backwards. Something written 55 years ago now seems both grotesquely distasteful, and yet also frighteningly relevant. London Classic Theatre has been exceptionally brave to revive this play. Orton was always a provocateur and it is testament to his skills as a writer that it still manages to provoke over half a century later. His script is intelligent, wordy, and very funny. Jam-packed with one-liners and satirical barbs, it is certainly not for the faint-hearted. It is brought to life brilliantly in this production and is perhaps even more relevant now than it was in 1969."
Mark Clegg - The Reviews Hub ★★★★
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 is Joe Orton’s 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.
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