A Government Inspector

By Nikolai Gogol and Deborah McAndrew

Drama

Methuen Drama
Publication date: November 2012

ISBN: 9781408173640

Digital Book format: ePub (Adobe DRM)

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This version of A Government Inspector is a Yorkshire take on Gogols 1836 fantastical Russian satire. The setting is here transposed to a small northern town in the twenty-first century, geographically and culturally remote from the centre of government.

Into a small Pennine town a mysterious stranger is mistaken for a government inspector. Fearing discovery of their corrupt goings-on, the towns unscrupulous councillors attempt to ingratiate themselves. Bribes, backhanders and brown envelopes abound, and the young chap, who has an eye for a quick buck, takes full advantage with hilarious results.

Deborah McAndrews version of A Government Inspector goes beyond literal translation, but is absolutely faithful to Gogols stated intention to peel away the surface layers of ordinary people and expose the corruption beneath. Its exuberant, brilliantly witty and original, and audiences will revel in the references to government officials expenses claims and womens beach volley ball...

Northern Broadsides, one of the countrys finest and best-loved touring theatre companies, breathes life and vigour into this nearly 200-year-old story. Absurdly funny, clever and strangely familiar, this feels to be the next One Man Two Guvnors.

The production premieres at Harrogate Theatre from 7 - 22 September before embarking on an English national tour until December 1st.