What The Butler Saw

By Joe Orton

Directed by Michael Cabot

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.

Joe Orton was born in Leicester in 1933. During a short, dazzling career, he shocked, outraged, and delighted audiences with his riotous black comedies, including Loot and Entertaining Mr Sloane.

Contains strong language.