Harold Pinter’s most shocking comedy, The Homecoming, comes to Liverpool next month, in a new production by PurpleCoat at the Lantern Theatre. This black-comedy by one of Britain’s most revered writers tells the story of Teddy, a well-to-do Professor, who brings his wife back to his family home in East London. There a patriarchal and abusive father, a brother who is a part time pimp, and the ghost of his dead mother join together to make one of the most shocking and unforgettable plays of the 20th century.
“Many people consider this to be Pinter’s best play,” explains the show’s director, Karl Falconer. “It’s ability to keep taking you to places you didn’t think it could go – and to dress that up with some incredibly funny comedy – really does confirm that view. It’s hilarious. It’s horrific. And it’s set slap bang in your front room, and that’s what gives it it’s edge. You can see the truth in it.”
Following the success of other recent Pinter productions in Liverpool, such as The Caretaker at the Everyman, PurpleCoat are hoping that people will want to experience more of Pinter’s work. They’re no stranger to controversial plays: their most recent production was of Titus Andronicus at the Unity Theatre, a play of such extremes that it had been written off for centuries as unworthy of being staged!
“It’s well worth a watch,” says Karl. “You’re definitely in for a treat. I think it could easily be the best show we’ve done in our five years in Liverpool: so make sure you don’t miss it!”
The Homecoming is on at The Lantern Theatre from the18th-20th April. Tickets are available now at www.lanterntheatre.co.uk or by calling the box office on 0151 7030000. Tickets are priced at £10 with concessions available at £7.