The Century Theatre Guild will present Patrick Hamilton’s play Gaslight, which many believe is one of the greatest suspense thrillers of the 20th century.
The play is a psychological drama, set at the turn of the 19th century but with a distinctive 21st century perspective.
Written in 1938, the play enjoyed a hugely successful Broadway run, and the subsequent film starred Ingrid Bergman in an Oscar-winning performance.
It brought about a shift in the style of stage thrillers, preserving the old-time feel of the Victorian thriller, while giving audiences a contemporary look at the emotionally charged interplay within a family. Much of the play revolves around its infamous gaslight, but in a distinctly contemporary vein it raises serious issues of family relationships and manipulation, resulting in a distinctly modern and grippingly theatrical story.
“I knew the minute I read the play that it would ideally play in our theatre,’ said director Jo Phenix. “Its intimacy brings the audience right into the Victorian living room, and right into the confused world Bella inhabits. Even in repeated rehearsals it sends a shiver down the spine.”
The role of Bella will be played by Brigida Scholten, who has appeared with the Century Theatre Guild a number of times. Bella’s husband, Jack, the character who has been voted by the cast as the most hated man in theatre, is played by Nick Forrow.
The detective, Rough, played by veteran Ken Noakes, supports and comforts, while forcefully bringing home to Bella the enormity of her danger. Rhonda Hewitson and newcomer Cindy Gushie play the household maids, one supportive, the other maliciously cheeky with an eye for the master. Keith Assoun takes on the role of stage manager for the first time.
The play runs May 24 to June 2 at Century Church Theatre, 72 Trafalgar Road, Hillsburgh, with performances at 8pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 2:30pm on Sundays.
Tickets are $18 inclusive and can be reserved by calling the theatre box office at 519-855-4586. For information visit www.centurychurchtheatre.com.
