Strangers On A Train - Review by Joe Bence

***** (5 Stars)

Gielgud Theatre - Monday 18 November, 2013

"Two strangers. One conversation. The perfect murder."

These are the words that welcome you into Strangers On A Train at the Gielgud Theatre. The level of intrigue created in Patricia Highsmith's novel and the 1951 Hitchcock film is truly reflected in this astonishing production directed by Robert Allan Ackerman.

When Guy Haines meets the enthusiastic Charles Bruno, little does he know that their destinies will become intertwined. A chance encounter leading to a murderous plot that Haines has no escape from, and that has dramatic consequences shaping both their lives.

Laurence Fox (Haines) and Jack Huston (Bruno) share a startling partnership. Huston is mesmerising as the eccentric Bruno, an emotionally exhausting character maintained throughout the play. Fox is predictable and fairly laboured at first, but his role develops and grows, culminating in an emotional climax. Brilliant from both actors.

The relationship between Haines and his fiancée, Anne, (played beautifully by Miranda Raison) is highly believable, and Raison's depiction of Anne is effortless, an anchor to Fox's character, and a role executed with ease. This contrasts heavily with Miriam, the adulterous ex-wife depicted by Myanna Buring, who captures Miriam's strong, independent attitude in a fine performance.

The sinister, somewhat sexual, intimacy between Bruno and his alcoholic mother Elsie (Imogen Stubbs) produces an uncomfortable atmosphere for the audience. Elsie is very Blanche Dubois: a faded beauty with a past, and Stubbs' communicates this excellently.

Ackerman's direction subtly adds Hitchcock elements within the play. Opening to a train carriage with two chorus members dressed in coats and fedora hats, whilst overhead a seedy, atmospheric musical score can be heard, immediately places the audience in the film director's world. These stylish elements from both Ackerman and Avgoustos Psillas' sound design are a regular occurrence throughout - and something to be admired.

What makes Strangers On A Train so stylistic and unique is the extraordinary set, and this is no surprise due to the hugely experienced West End designer, Tim Goodchild. The remarkable set design represents the film noir genre that this play originates, with everything in perfect black and white: from the exquisite 50s outfits (designed by Dona Granata), to the highly-detailed set. The revolving stage keeps the pace constant with quick scene transitions, not allowing the audience to lose focus. It simply is a visual masterpiece.

The entire two and a half hours transports the audience to the grey classic cinematic world of Hitchcock, incorporating laughter, drama, and murder. Strangers On A Train takes you on a first-class journey.

Strangers On A Train is currently playing at the Gielgud Theatre, London until 22 February. Get your tickets here: http://www.delfontmackintosh.co.uk/Tickets/StrangersOnATrain/StrangersOnATrain.asp