An Inspector Calls at Milton Keynes Theatre Review

An Inspector Calls
Milton Keynes Theatre

23-27 February 2016

www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Reviewed by Jayne Wiggins

“When Inspector Goole arrives unexpectedly at the prosperous Birling family home, their peaceful dinner party is shattered by his investigations into the death of a young woman. His startling revelations shake the very foundations of their lives and challenge us all to examine our consciences.”

A much busier show than the last one we went to in Milton Keynes. The car parking was not as easy this time but we did find a free parking space near the theatre.

The theatre is an impressive building in the middle of a large shopping complex, clean and bright outside, welcoming and friendly as we entered. Very friendly staff welcomed us through the door as always and we made our way to the Piano Bar, a classy bar with live piano music to entertain us as we waited for the auditorium to open. The ambience in the entire theatre was warm and friendly, a welcoming feel in every part of the theatre. There were lots of school groups there this time as this particular show is on the GCSE curriculum at the minute, but they were well natured and mannered. The queues to the toilets were short on the ground floor, though I cannot speak for other areas of the theatre. The auditorium itself had been extended for this show with extra seating made available in the gods! We had great seats near the front and a fantastic view of the stage.

The play opened with a single child running through the audience onto stage and the sound of historic music. His role was as mysterious as most of the play but he added an extra layer to what was to become a great mystery. Caroline Wildi was superb as the strong mother Sybil. Her grotesque laughter and mocking towards the end of the play allowed the audience to maintain a dislike for the character and role she plays in the wider part of society and class systems.

The set design was stunning, with the whole play performed within a mock dining room or stage front ‘outside’ the period house. With rain pouring from the sky and eerie streetlights, the audience were treated to a play which drew us in as if we were part of the action.

I would definitely recommend this show for anyone, especially those studying this play. Those with a love of political, supernatural or mysteries would all love this play and it is a show not to be missed while it is here in Milton Keynes.

Rating: 5/5

Tickets cost from £14.40 to £35.90 (plus £2.85 transaction fee).

An Inspector Calls is at Milton Keynes Theatre until 27 February 2016. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0844 8717652.

Milton Keynes Theatre, 500 Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, Bucks, MK9 3NZ