Pass The Butler - a satirical comedy by Eric Idle

A script from Eric Idle is the latest offering from Phoenix Theatre this August, as it brings the fast-paced, satirical comedy of bad manners to the stage. Directed by Peter Nettleton, Pass The Butler is set in mid-1980s England and revolves around the Deputy Leader of the Conservative Party who suffers a heart attack during a vigorous parliamentary debate. His family has to decide whether they should switch off his life-support while considering all the legal, moral, political and possibly constitutional ramifications. “Essentially, it’s about an upper-class English family and their butler, who are faced with a moral dilemma that could have far-reaching repercussions,” Nettleton said. “Throw in some paparazzi and a spanner in the works and you also get a hilarious twist in the tail. “It’s a drawing-room comedy of satirical farce that references almost all comic genres from black comedy through to slapstick.” Nettleton said he had long been an admirer of Idle’s work with Monty Python and first read his script for Pass The Butler about five years ago. “I laughed out loud at least once every page and thought ‘If it's that funny off the page, what would it be like on the stage?’” he said. “As nobody else was about to do it, I decided I would have to. “It’s pure absurdist fantasy escapism, guaranteed to take your mind off election campaigns, although there are politicians involved – but it’s still very funny.” Pass The Butler plays at 8pm, August 12, 13, 14, 19, 20 and 21 with a 2pm matinee on August 15. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 concession – book on 0450 158 851, phoenixbookings@hotmail.com or through BOCS on 9484 1133. Phoenix Theatre is located on the corner of Rockingham Road and Carrington Street within the Hamilton Hill Memorial Hall.