*** Many apologies for the delay in this review. I have had quite a few issues of late. ***
Sharing a flat can be murder.
Yet another production based on a film that I have never seen. And that is a good thing, because I have nothing to compare it with. I understand that there are similarities between this production and the 1992 movie version of the same name (based on a book by John Lutz), but this stage version really was its own offering. Adapted by Rebecca Reid, Single White Female had me on the edge of my seat all the way through.
Going through a divorce, Allie (Lisa Faulkner) and daughter Bella (Amy Snudden) move into a new apartment and advertise for a sub-letter to help pay the bills. Enter, Hedy, played by Kym Marsh (also Executive Producer) who at once rings alarm bells with Allie’s business partner and neighbour, Graham (Andro). Through a sequence of manipulation, including that of Bella, Hedy soon takes control of the environment.
Kym Marsh is genuinely frightening to the point you would not want to be left alone with her. I have come across a few Hedy’s in my time (minus the murder) and believe me, this was spot on. Lisa Faulkner was excellent as the vulnerable Allie and the contrasting chemistry between the two worked well. Rounding off the support was Jonny McGarrity as Sam, being the stereotypical ex-husband who gets an eyeful of aggression from Hedy towards the end of Act Two. Andro, as Graham, portrays the rock-like support but also adding a little humour at times. Finally, Amy Snudden’s Bella has all the angst and attitude of a troubled teen whose own dark secret is foreshadowed in the prologue.
Directed by Gordon Greenberg, the show moved swiftly without sense of time, at least in the theatre, passing. But I must also credit the wonderful work of Lighting Designer (Jason Taylor) and Sound and Composition (Max Peppenheim). These mediums worked side by side creating changes in mood and atmosphere at just the right times during proceedings. Finally, an effective and convincing apartment set (Just the one throughout) was created Morgan Large along with the contemporary costumes.
Overall, this was a wonderful production which I will keep in my nightmares for a long time. But remember, always do research on who it is you are letting into your home.
Cheers,
Antony N Britt
*Photos taken from the public domain and do not represent the actual performance reviewed.
Antony N Britt - Author 