Note: It is thrilling that we have been offered this lovely historic venue for our performances. The play
will be greatly enhanced by the timeless, spiritual atmosphere of the church. Our grateful thanks
to Father Peter Williams and the St Michael's administration.
About the Play
A simply brilliant play, as fresh and gripping now as when it was first performed. With the theatrical
excitement of a detective thriller that holds you in the twists and turns of the moment, it delves
beneath the surface to expose unchanging social hypocrisies.
Set in 1912 when the comfortable middle classes were oblivious to the “fire and anguish” that was to come with the first World War, the action begins as an affluent family in the industrial north is
celebrating the engagement of the daughter of the house to a young man of wealth and
breeding.
Without warning an unexpected visitor arrives in the form of a police inspector. His
penetrating questions slowly unravel the story in a series of astonishing revelations.
Moreover we are all under suspicion when this inspector calls!
The Cast
Arthur Birling: Affable, complacent, confident self-made businessman with an eye to social
status.
John Ashton
Sybil Birling: Of higher social status than her husband - lacks warmth but is impressive in an icy
sort of way.
Deborah Davids
Shelia Birling: The attractive, charming daughter. Has a rebellious streak and matures as the truth emerges.
Emma Price
Eric Birling: The half-shy, half assertive troubled son. Has a drinking problem Like his sister matures
during the play and develops a certain strength not obvious to begin with.
Eddie Bijl
Gerald Croft: The son of Sir George Croft, engaged to Sheila The easy mannered, well bred man
about town.
Peter Rutherford
Inspector Goole: Has presence and inner power. Something
mesmerising about him.
