WEST CHESTERFIELD, N.H.-J.B. Priestley's classic mystery, An Inspector Calls, will be presented in a Script-in-Hand production at the Actors Theatre Playhouse (ATP) over three weekends - Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays - from Aug. 8 through 24. All performances begin at 7:30 p.m.
The ATP production features Roberta Barnes as Sheila Birling and Bruce Holloway as Gerald Croft. The cast also includes Bob Gruen, Marilyn Tullgren, Mike Auerbach, Brian Marsh, and Belle Coles. Sam Pilo directs.
With this production, "the Playhouse is going to join the movement with a Script-in-Hand approach," Pilo says in a news release. "Script-in-Hand productions are proving popular throughout regional and community theaters across the country.
Simply put, each actor in any production has the option to carry a script with them for all or parts of a performance.
"While experimental in nature, the hope is that the concept will find its way into various productions in future seasons at the Actors Theatre Playhouse."
An Inspector Calls is set in April 1912 at the home of the well-to-do Birling family, with their daughter's new fiance. They are enjoying a spot of port in the drawing room after dinner. As the family allows themselves to luxuriate in their good fortune and position in society, they are suddenly interrupted by an unexpected visitor as Police Inspector Goole has come to speak with the Birling family.
The Inspector's arrival immediately disrupts the evening and the family grows increasingly unsettled when he announces that he is investigating the death of a young woman. His startling revelations not only shatter their lives, but also raise profound questions about social conscience and class values that cannot be ignored.
Advanced ticket purchase is strongly recommended. Reservations may be made at atplayhouse.org.
This Arts item was submitted to The Commons.