"Night Must Fall" by Emlyn Williams
26-30 Sep, 19:45
Woodley Theatre presents the landmark early psychological thriller which set the standard for so many following works. Although it premiered in 1935 it is as contemporary and vital as ever. Keeping with the milieu of the time it races on like an early Hitchcock adaption of an Agatha Christie.
Set, not surprisingly, in a remote country house ruled by an embittered and narcissistic woman who keeps her household in thrall including her ostensibly retiring and frustrated niece. Added to this is a dull but likeable buffoon of a suitor to the niece and of course the ubiquitous detective a highly shrewd and patient man.
The news of a missing woman from a local hotel and the advent of a brash, captivating young man throws everything into the melting pot and the play positively races to a gripping climax.
Whilst it will be set in the period in which it is written, it is equally relevant now in its pace, depth of characterisation and the portrayal and examination of the mindset of the psychopath.
Directed by Mikhail Franklin
This amateur production is present by arrangement with Concord Theatricals.
