Genesian Theatre Sydney

Directed by Mark G. Nagle, Strangers On A Train, is full of suspense.  A production that holds the audience spellbound with its compelling plot and obsessive characters. The play is at once an exploration of psychological manipulation and twisted family ties.  Two men meet on a train, one has an unhappy marriage and the other, an unhappy relationship with his father. The former is after a divorce and the latter is after murder. Guy Haines, the former, is a well dressed, poised young man, who also happens to be a much sought after architect. Charles Bruno, the latter, is a somewhat dishevelled character, prone to childish tantrums and drunken bouts of fantasy.. 

Reliant on his wealthy parents for money, Bruno was looking forward to his inheritance. Only problem is, his father, has cut him out of the will. He is planning for his father’s demise. Whilst on the train he suggests a simple solution to both their problems. That he kill Haines irritating wife and, Haines in turn, shoots Bruno’s father. No-one will connect them and it will be the perfect crime. Haines, gets off the train first, not realising that he has just entered an agreement with a psychopath who has every intention of carrying out the plan he considers signed, sealed and soon to be delivered.

This production, based on Patricia Highsmith’s novel, is set in Australia and in the present time. No 1950s film noir costumes but plenty of mood music. Sharp and discordant sounds too, are reminiscent, of Hitchcock’s 1951 film version. The lighting is reflective and heightens the intensity of the action on both a physical and psychological level. The set, though minimalist, is perfect for a play which rest so completely on the relationships between the characters.

The cast could not be faulted. Roy Wallace-Cant’s portrayal of, Psycho/Spoilt brat, Charles Bruno, is startlingly bone chilling. Hamish MacDonald gives a streamlined performance as Guy Haines and even resembles Farley Granger, who played the role in the film.

Supporting characters including Jane Wallace as Bruno’s mother, and Rachele Edson, as  Haine’s fiance/wife, are the perfect foils. Krishae Senthuran, Cris Bocchi and, most importantly, Christopher Brown as Detective Arthur Gerard, all add extra dimensions to what is a very well paced and beautifully directed journey into the recesses of the mind and it’s ability to control the thoughts and deeds of others.

What really stood out overall, in this production besides the direction and performances, were the exceptional lighting and sound effects. Michael Schell, deserves special mention, for attention to lighting and sound design.

By Renee Dallow

Bourgeoise Bloomer Reviews And Banter