An Inspector Calls pops in to Hanley’s Regent Theatre

Nov 9 2011 by Will Harris, Crewe Chronicle

One of the most decorated plays in history has called in at the Regent Theatre in Hanley this week.

An Inspector Calls is Stephen Daldry’s multi award-winning production of J B Priestley’s classic.

Director Daltry himself has been triple Oscar-nominated for his films The Reader (starring Kate Winslet and Ralph Fiennes), The Hours (starring Meryl Streep, Nicole Kidman and Julianne Moore) and Billy Elliot (starring Jamie Bell).

But his first major directorial success in 1992 when his visionary revival of An Inspector Calls opened at the National Theatre to outstanding critical acclaim.

Featuring Ian MacNeil’s ingenious designs, a sweeping score by Oscar-winning composer Stephen Warbeck (Shakespeare in Love) and atmospheric lighting by Rick Fisher, the production has received an unprecedented string of awards – a total of 19 major international awards – including the Olivier Award for Best Revival, Best Director and Best Designer and the Tony Award on Broadway for Best Revival, Best Director and Best Lighting.

A show spokesman says: “Hailed as the theatrical event of our generation, winning more awards than any other play in history, this magnificent production has thrilled audiences across the world with its epic and wildly imaginative staging, raw emotion, evocative score, lashing rain and searing suspense.

“When Inspector Goole arrives unexpectedly at the prosperous Birling family home, their peaceful dinner party is shattered by investigations into the death of a young woman.

“His startling revelations shake the very foundations of their lives, and challenge us all the examine our consciences.”

The show has now embarked on a national theatre tour following its phenomenal success in the West End last year where, once again, the production proved a smash hit with critics and audiences alike.

It’s also played across Australia, the United States, including Broadway, Japan and Europe and has completed six major UK tours, and is estimated to have been seen by more than two million theatregoers worldwide.

The show runs until Saturday. For tickets and more information call the box office on 0844 871 7649 or visit www.atgtickets.com/stoke.