The Exorcist

From the moment you stepped into Theatre 102, an aura of foreboding gripped the air. The lights dimmed low, casting shadows over tables draped in ominous black, setting the stage for a night of spine-tingling terror. Rain sound effects whispered hauntingly in the background, and a chilling pre-show announcement sent shivers down the spine, signalling the beginning of a horrifying journey.

Yasmin Elahi's direction was nothing short of visionary, seamlessly translating the iconic horror of The Exorcist from screen to stage. Her meticulous attention to detail ensured every scene dripped with atmospheric dread, while her innovative use of space and staging kept the audience immersed in the unfolding horrors.

The ensemble cast of The Exorcist at Theatre 102 delivered a night of unholy terror, each member contributing to the chilling atmosphere and visceral intensity of the performance. While some performances shone brightly with eerie authenticity and captivating presence, others navigated their roles with varying degrees of success, yet all contributed to the unsettling tapestry of supernatural horror that unfolded on stage.

Ali Morgan, portraying Chris, initially faced challenges in conveying the fierce protectiveness required of a mother confronting supernatural horrors. However, as the night progressed, Morgan's portrayal gained depth, finding its footing amidst escalating terror. Adrian Mackay stole scenes as Burke, infusing the eccentric uncle with magnetic charisma and well-timed comedic relief. Jonny Sweeper, as Father Joe, conveyed sincerity but occasionally faltered in capturing the role's spiritual turmoil. Jabade Brown-Oakes commanded attention as Father Damien Karras, reflecting inner turmoil and unwavering determination. Scott Black's portrayal of Father Merrin exuded a quiet strength with a haunted past. In the climactic exorcism scenes, his commanding voice pierced through the darkness with a harrowing bellow that surely would have scared any lingering spirits from the theatre.

However, the true star of the evening was Charlotte Rubendra, alternating with Kaitlyn Harding as Regan. Rubendra's transformation into the possessed young girl was nothing short of mesmerizing, her vacant stare and contorted expressions sending chills down the spine. Rubendra navigated the duality of Regan's character with eerie authenticity, seamlessly shifting between innocence and malevolence.

Despite an unexpected interruption from distant fireworks, the cast maintained their grip on the audience's fear, turning external chaos into an unsettling backdrop to the unfolding demonic drama. The production's overall mastery of horror theatre was evident. The cast and crew's unwavering dedication and technical expertise crafted an immersive experience that blurred the line between reality and nightmare.

Yasmin Elahi's visionary direction seamlessly translated the iconic horror of The Exorcist from screen to stage. This production was clearly a passion project, with her Director’s note mentioning a “six-month quest” just to obtain the rights to the play. Her meticulous attention to detail ensured every scene dripped with atmospheric dread, while her innovative use of space and staging kept the audience immersed in the unfolding horrors. Quick transitions between scenes were flawlessly executed, maintaining the play's relentless pace and enhancing its immersive quality.

Set Designer Jonathan Johns working in collaboration with Jonathan Moss as Technical Manager and Lighting Designer Yasmin Elahi, have created a stunningly sinister display of stagecraft. Utilizing curtains and lights to obscure and reveal lurking horrors, particularly in the attic section, was visually striking and added tension throughout. In addition, Rowany Blackshaw's special effects were a visceral feast for the senses, from grotesque makeup to spine-chilling practical effects that immersed the audience in the visceral horrors of possession. The sickly special effects makeup in the second act, coupled with Johns’ levitation device, brought the terror of the supernatural to life with terrifying authenticity.

The Exorcist at Theatre 102 wasn't just a play; it was a frightening descent into the depths of horror and human frailty. With a stellar cast bringing their characters to life amidst and spine-chilling special effects, director Yasmin Elahi orchestrated a night of terror that gripped the audience from start to finish. Despite occasional challenges, the production's ability to transform the familiar into the terrifying, coupled with standout performances like Charlotte Rubendra's chilling portrayal of Regan, ensured that every pulse-pounding moment resonated long after the lights came up. This Australian premiere of "The Exorcist" is more than worth the trip to Redcliffe. Experience the fear, embrace the darkness, and secure your seat for a night you won't soon forget.

Book your tickets before time runs out, and prepare for a spine-tingling adventure into the depths of horror!

Review by Rebecca Lynne

Photos by Christopher Sharman and Alan Burchill

Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1227206?

Ghostlight Theatre: https://www.ghostlightbrisbane.com.au/

Redcliffe Musical Theatre: https://www.redcliffemusicaltheatre.com/