People as Buildings
In the stage directions, characters are compared to buildings. Vicky, for example, is supposed to be "a desirable property in her early twenties, well-built and beautifully maintained throughout." The burglar is "in need of extensive repair and modernisation."
Dotty's Brain Like a Fruit Machine
Confused about her lines, Dotty says to Lloyd that "it's like a fruit machine in there [her brain]." By comparing herself to a machine that randomly distributes fruit, she illustrates how her thoughts are constantly scattered. It is obvious that she is not an ideal actor to work with.
Selsdon Like a Ghost
While everyone is looking for Selsdon, who the company suspects has wandered off, he suddenly arrives on stage without anyone noticing him at first. When the actors realize he is among them, Lloyd compares him to the ghost in Hamlet: "Standing there like Hamlet's father." This emphasizes the sudden and unexpected appearance of Selsdon.
Selsdon Like Myra Hess
When Selsdon does not obey Lloyd's order to stop due to his bad hearing, Lloyd compares him to a famous British pianist: "It's like Myra Hess playing on through the air-raids." Similarly to Hess, who played concerts throughout the Second World War despite the constant threat of air raids, Selsdon continues playing despite the loud interventions by Lloyd.
Lloyd as God
Throughout the production, Lloyd compares himself to God, emphasizing that he is the only competent person on set: "I'm just God, Belinda, love." Supporting his self-image, he sits in an elevated position and uses quotes from the Bible when he intervenes.
