'Gaslight' review- Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield

From the moment the lights come on, it is clear that something is not right in the Manningham household. Set in Victorian Britain, the 1938 Patrick Hamilton play is where the term ‘gaslighting’ originates from- and it does not take long to work out why. Domineering Jack Manningham [Rupert Young] has psychologically manipulated his wife Bella [Kara Tointon] into doubting her sanity, in order to achieve his own aims. When a peculiar retired police officer [Keith Allen] with an acute interest in the life of the Manninghams unexpectedly arrives, this thrilling play truly commences.

While the play begins quite slowly, a sudden twist reveals why the time for heavy character development was necessary. Kara Tointon portrays the maddened Bella with credibility and precision.  Her chilling, stilted stage speech contrasts perfectly with the arrogance of Young's patriarchal Jack. That said, for a character of such turbulence in the play, Young’s portrayal of Jack is understated in the first act, though he eases into the role as the play progresses.  Charlotte Blackledge and Helen Anderson, as the Manningham’s maid and housekeeper respectively, ensure that their contributions to the play do not go unnoticed, bringing complexity to otherwise potentially predictable characters.

However, the highlight of the play is undoubtedly Allen’s charismatic ex-inspector Rough. In a play that is defined appropriately as a psychological thriller, Allen's presence is much needed, as his humorous approach to the character provides light-hearted pauses that distinguish between the moments of relief and horror.

The creative team are also instrumental to the success of ‘Gaslight’. The play’s lighting has a significant contribution to the unravelling of events. Light designer Howard Hudson effectively utilises the lighting to navigate the tone of the action on-stage, with the darkened gas lamps being particularly eerie.

The stage remains the same throughout, with all the action taking place within one lavish Victorian sitting room, finished with paintings, plush armchairs and a piano. Designer David Woodhead masterfully presents the set so that, on closer inspection of the room, there are hints that prosperity is not on the cards for the Manningham household, with a sense of wear and the use of a bland colour palette.

‘Gaslight’ is a play of unnerving schemes and mystery that deals with the still prominent issue of coercive control. Through its tormenting, dark and disturbing nature, the director Anthony Banks ensures that the message of the play is as relevant to today’s audience as it was to its contemporary.

‘Gaslight’ plays at the Lyceum Theatre until 25th February.

Review based on performance on 20th February 2017.

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