Review: AN INSPECTOR CALLS at The Hampton Theatre Company

The old English play An Inspector Calls by J.B. Priestley has had an interesting, long journey. It was first performed in 1945 and then in the UK in 1946 with an opening on Broadway in 1947 that was, strangely, dubbed as "stale". Over time, interestingly, it has become very successful even winning a couple of Tony awards for its 1994 Broadway revival. You will see why as The Hampton Theatre Company (HTC) has mounted a brilliant production of this riveting story.

The tale, set in 1912, centers on the prominent Birling family, headed by Arthur and Sybil, in what is supposed to be a joyous evening celebrating their daughter's engagement. However, it turns into mayhem as a mysterious visitor knocks on the door.

HTC's incarnation, kicking off their 31st season, is excellently directed by Sarah Hunnewell and boasts a remarkable cast.

Edward A. Brennan strongly portrays Inspector Goole, the one who interrupts the Birling's festivities. Goole is there to interrogate the family in the death of a young woman named Eva (or, Daisy). Mr. Brennan also provides the majority of the laughs, though few, in a serious play. Inspector Goole doesn't seem to call on the Birling's to gather new information, but to draw out of them information he already knows; how they collectively yet indirectly contribute to Eva's death.

This could be interpreted as a figurative clash between capitalism and socialism at the time effectively demonstrating Mr. Priestley's Socialist criticism of the superficial selfishness and hypocrisy of the Capitalist society. For example, among other things, how daughter Sheila, splendidly portrayed by Amanda Griemsmann, got Eva fired from her job for petty, jealous reasons. Or Sybil, the head of a highly respected charity organization, portrayed by Susan Galardi, denying assistance to Eva because she deemed Eva not deserving. While the family is circuitously responsible for Eva's death, they personify for Mr. Priestley a system that exploits helpless people.

Everyone is the ensemble company is truly superb in their respective roles; particularly in the entrancing Act II where there are many twists and turn to this story.

Another highlight is Peter-Tolin Baker's clever set. The evening takes place in the dining room of the Birling's home. It is gorgeously decorated with a grand table, fireplace, and several posh chairs making the stage seem bigger than it really is. This is enhanced beautifully by Sebastian Paczynski's lighting and Teresa LeBrun's stunning costumes.

And so, it seems the Hampton Theatre Company's new season is off to a powerful start with An Inspector Calls. A riveting story and a stellar cast make for a wonderful night of theatre.

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An Inspector Calls is presented by the Hampton Theatre Company at the Quogue Community Hall of Quogue, Long Island, through November 8th.

By J.B. Priestley, Direction & Sound Design by Sarah Hunnewell, Set Design by Peter-Tolin Baker, Lighting Design by Sebastian Paczynski, Costume Design by Teresa LeBrun, Stage Management by Chrissie DePierro

Starring Daren Kelly, Anthony Famulari, Susan Galardi, Amanda Griemsmann, Spencer Scott, Chrissie DePierro, and Edward A. Brennan.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please call (631) 653-8955 or visit www.hamptontheatre.org

Photo #1 by Tom Kochie; Daren Kelly, Amanda Griemsmann, Anthony Famulari, Susan Galardi and Spencer Scott.

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