Gaslight

In fog-bound London in 1880, at the upper class home of Jack Manningham and his wife Bella, we soon learn that Bella is very much on edge mentally and that this state of mind has been pushed by her husband. The question that gains more traction is why do the gaslights dim at a regular time most days of the week. As the play progresses, the audience learns so much more than it could have imagined – and we wanted to learn so much more of the ever-deepening mystery. Let’s just say that husband Jack had some questions to answer. Then the devious detective arrives. 

This play, Gaslight, and various versions of it have been produced since its debut in 1938 and this production is up with the best.  Director Catherine Radbourne is to be congratulated for this end-product. With effective set, great interplay of the characters and very good choice of cast, she presented an entertaining and absorbing evening for the audience. Most successful feature was the choice of Shannon Bea as the troubled Mrs Manningham (Bella), who was outstanding in the role. Congratulations, great.  Also, Ewan Orton as husband Jack Manningham and Gareth Macready as Detective Rough in the other major roles were both great in their characters. The more minor parts were played well by Alannah Saddler and Carmen Heath. The strength of the entirety of small cast helped lead to this very successful production.