Strangers on a Train at The Little Theatre Leicester Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Leanne W
The Little theatre sits in the heart of Leicester City Centre with easy access to parking and places to eat and drink. It is almost entirely staffed by volunteers who are there because they love the theatre – and especially this one.
Tonight’s play Strangers on a Train is written by Craig Warner for stage. However, the book was written by Patricia Highsmith and has also had the Hitchcock treatment on screen. It is a twisted tale of murder and manipulation and centres around Charles Bruno (Keir Watson) and Guy Haines (Michael King).
The play opens to a black/grey neutral set which remains throughout. The opening also introduces us to the play via a large screen at the back of the stage. This was done in a style, reminiscent of the silver screen days. Unfortunately, the screen then remained largely unutilised for the rest of the play, occasional images arriving as token gestures rather than adding any substance to the story. Music was used throughout and largely depicted the style of the time, though I was aware that at one point the music was from the 90’s which took my attention away from the height of the play ahead of me as I pondered the obscure choice. Lighting was well used throughout and the simplicity of the set with minimal props kept our attention on the drama unfolding ahead of us.
The story starts with Bruno and Haines meeting on a train and discussing if they could murder each other’s enemies and creating the perfect crimes as there is no connection between them. A plan which Bruno leads and is enthusiastic about, shortly afterward taking opportunity to murder Haines’ cheating wife. He then begins to harass Haines to keep his side of the bargain, which he had never fully agreed to.
Kier Watson as Bruno developed his character skilfully throughout as we saw his manipulation of the situation he wanted to create, up until he slowly fell apart as his crimes are exposed, ably demonstrating the fragility of the character. The relationship with Karen Gordon as his mother was suitably uncomfortable and she provided us a glimpse of the reason why Bruno is such a spoilt and odd individual. Laura Brookes is perfect in the role as Haines new love and demonstrates her love and enthusiasm for her man beautifully, as well as maintaining the innocent naivety of a woman of the time.
The cast is further ably supported by Joe Middleton, David, Lovell and Joff Brown as the additional characters in the story. The absolute stand-out performance of the play though is Michael king; what a talent he is. The drama sees a dapper gent in his prime at the start and yet with every line and every scene we see the character of Guy Haines fall apart a little more until he is a shell of a man by the end. The skill of this actor is amazing as he visible aged and deteriorated in front of our eyes at the hands of Bruno – it really is outstanding. The play is worth a watch for his performance alone!
Another excellent performance from these great people and this fabulous theatre. Treat yourselves to a ticket – a fabulous evening’s entertainment and supporting a brilliant venue at the same time.
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Strangers on a Train is on until Saturday 21st June with tickets remaining for all shows priced between £16 and £18.50.
For more information or to book tickets visit thelittletheatre.co.uk