Photo Flash: First Look at WHAT THE BUTLER SAW at Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey

First performed in 1969, this uproarious farce shocked audiences when it was first produced. Now, almost 50 years later, what were racy subjects are far less so, and audiences are able to both laugh more and see better the delightfully wicked bullets that playwright Joe Orton fires in startling pace from beginning to end. This brilliant comedy unveils the fragile state of truth in the hands of those in power, and the power of truth despite our easy ability to twist it. Because the show includes moments of partial undress and adult subject matter, it is not suitable for young children.

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey continues their "Art of Hope" season with What the Butler Saw by Joe Orton. Marking the third Main Stage and fourth overall production of the company's 55th season, What the Butler Saw follows the Theatre's successful runs of The Bungler by Molie?re and Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice, on the Main Stage and A Midsummer Night's Dream on the Outdoor Stage.

John Hutton is making his STNJ debut in the role of Doctor Rance. Peter Simon Hilton, who will be playing Doctor Prentice, is entering his second season at The Shakespeare Theatre, after last season's production of A Child's Christmas in Wales. Vanessa Morosco is making her Main Stage debut after playing Titania and Hippolyta in A Midsummer Night's Dream on the Outdoor Stage this summer. Returning to The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey for his second production this season is Jeffrey M. Bender, who will be playing Sergeant Match. Allison Layman returns for her third season and will be taking on the role of Geraldine Barclay. Returning for his second season is Robbie Simpson, who will be playing Nicholas Beckett.

Director Paul Mullins returns for his 26th season at The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey. The creative team includes Scenic Designer Brittany Vasta, Costume Designer Kristin Isola, Sound Designer Steven L. Beckel, and Lighting Designer Tony Galaska. The Production Stage Manager is Alison Cote.

Tickets for this production can be purchased at ShakespeareNJ.org or by calling the Box Office at 973-408-5600. Performances of What the Butler Saw begin September 6 at the F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre located at 36 Madison Ave, Madison, New Jersey.

Photo Credit: Jerry Dalia

Allison Layman as Geraldine Barclay and Peter Simon Hilton as Dr. Prentice

Peter Simon Hilton as Dr. Prentice, Allison Layman as Geraldine Barclay and John Hutton as Dr. Rance

John Hutton as Dr. Rance and Allison Layman as Geraldine Barclay

John Hutton as Dr. Rance and Vanessa Morosco as Mrs. Prentice

Peter Simon Hilton as Dr. Prentice and Robbie Simpson as Nicholas Beckett

Peter Simon Hilton as Dr. Prentice and Jeffrey M. Bender as Sergeant Match

Peter Simon Hilton as Dr. Prentice and Allison Layman as Geraldine Barclay

Vanessa Morosco as Mrs. Prentice, John Hutton as Dr. Rance, and Peter Simon Hilton as Dr. Prentice

Vanessa Morosco as Mrs. Prentice