An Inspector Calls at The Regent Theatre

On a rainy autumn evening in the city centre, I took a visit to The Regent Theatre to see The National Theatre’s production of An Inspector Calls. A striking and atmospheric rendition of J.B. Priestley’s classic play directed by Stephen Daldry remains faithful to the text while infusing the drama with a modern flair that brings out its social relevance.

If you haven’t had the pleasure of seeing this performance yet - or like me, studied it at school and the plot faded in memory - there’s slight spoilers ahead…
[Tickets were gifted to the BID by the team at The Regent Theatre for this performance.]

The minimalist yet imposing set design immediately captivates, creating a sense of tension and mystery that intensifies as the story unfolds. The atmospheric grandeur of The Regent Theatre lends itself to intense drama, so the perfect setting for such an unsettling story.

The use of lighting and sound effects are masterfully executed, enhancing the eerie, suspenseful tone of the play. The looming structure of the Birling family’s home symbolizes their detachment from the world, underscoring the play's central themes of social responsibility and collective guilt. In particular, the opening of the performance featuring somber on-stage rainfall was incredibly impressive to see.

The cast delivers strong performances, with each actor embodying the complexity of their character. The tension between them is palpable, particularly during the confrontations with the enigmatic Inspector (portrayed by Tim Treloar). The actors skillfully navigate the gradual unraveling of secrets and moral dilemmas, keeping the audience engaged throughout.

On its opening night, the performances received a roaring applause, with many of the city’s youth in attendance to explore this much-studied GCSE text in the flesh.

An Inspector Calls shows live at The Regent Theatre in Stoke-on-Trent City Centre until Saturday 28th, with very limited tickets available: An Inspector Calls Tickets | Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent in Stoke-on-Trent | ATG Tickets