Pinter’s masterpiece comes to the Swan in Stratford

The plot of The Homecoming revolves around academic Teddy, played by Justin Salinger, who returns from America to his working class roots in London, to introduce his family to his new wife, Ruth.

As a result an unsettling show of one-upmanship gradually develops as Teddy’s foul-mouthed father and his seemingly low-life brothers battle to impress the new woman who has entered their lives.

RSC associate director David Farr said; “I directed the 50th anniversary production of The Birthday Party at the Lyric theatre shortly before Harold died. He was very much involved, displaying that characteristic passion for the simple act of making theatre.

“To direct one of the first productions after his death is a great honour and to direct The Homecoming - which I think is possibly his greatest achievement - is a genuine thrill. It will be strange doing it without him.”

As well as Justin Salinger, the ensemble cast also includes Jonathan Slinger and Aisleen McGuckin - who are currently appearing in Macbeth - along with Des McAleer, Nicholas Woodeson and Richard Ridell.

The play opens on Thursday and runs for a season.

Alongside the production to mark what would have been Pinter’s birthday, the RSC are also showing a selection of the playwright’s work on October 10 at the Swan.

There will also be a day-long workshop on October 14 in which Joe Harmston shares his experience of directing Pinter’s texts and an on-stage event on October 15 at 7.30pm to celebrate the impact Pinter had on the the work of the RSC.

For tickets for any of the performances contact the RSC box office on 0844 800 1110 or visit www.rsc.org.uk