Drama Dock Theatre Company is busy preparing to open the second production of its all-British 2023 season — J. B. Priestley’s renowned play, “An Inspector Calls.”
The thrilling political crime thriller will run from June 22 to 25, for three evening performances and two matinees, at Vashon Center for the Arts.
“An Inspector Calls” is a classic British play that has left an indelible mark on the theatrical landscape of the last century. Combining elements of mystery and gripping social commentary, the play delves into the implicating circumstances surrounding the tragic death of a young woman.
Originally staged in 1945 in the Soviet Union and subsequently in London’s esteemed West End in 1946, featuring Ralph Richardson, Margaret Leighton, and Alec Guinness, this play has had numerous revivals over the years. A ground-breaking production directed by Stephen Daldry at the UK’s National Theatre in 1992 garnered significant acclaim.
Priestley, who wrote the play, was also a highly regarded novelist, screenwriter, and essayist in mid-twentieth century Britain. During the darkest days of World War II, his soothing BBC radio broadcasts, urging social unity and advocating for a post-war egalitarian welfare state, propelled him to become a cultural icon.
“‘An Inspector Calls’… repeats its plea for a fairer and more compassionate world,” said The Guardian, in 2016.
Under the direction of Drama Dock’s artistic director, Lisa Peretti, who gifted local audiences last summer with her original musical “Winghaven Park,” the production features an exceptional cast of veteran local actors. Notable performers include Bill Epstein, Christopher Kehoe, Stephanie Murray, Alyssa Norling, Gaye Detzer, and Gabriel Dawson, making his professional debut following his recent graduation from a New York acting school.
Reed Harvey, an experienced actor with professional credits on stage, television, and film, including appearances alongside John Travolta and John Heard, takes on the pivotal role of the Inspector. Harvey is also a co-founder of a critically acclaimed theatre company and a produced playwright.
“I am so happy to be able to combine two things that I love: living on Vashon and working with a group of terrific actors and a talented director on a great play,” said Harvey.
Tickets for “An Inspector Calls” are now available for purchase. Additionally, tickets for the opening night pre-party at 5:30 p.m. at Minglement on June 22 are also on sale. For more information and to secure tickets, visit dramadock.org/on-stage.
