GASLIGHT

 

Bolton Little Theatre’s production of Gaslight by Patrick Hamilton was a bold attempt to create atmosphere, tension, and period drama. Directed by Carol Butler, this chilling psychological thriller was delivered with care and a style of storytelling that had the audience gripped.

The set design by Helen Livesey was suited to the piece. Rich reds and dark woods created the sense of an elegant upper-class Victorian home, with carefully chosen features — two doors, two windows, a fireplace, and well-placed seating areas — all of which added layers of authenticity. This was smoothly managed throughout by Stage Manager James Casterton and his team, who kept the mechanics of the production running effortlessly. Props by Dorothy Green, Viv Bloomfield, and Karen Casterton were well-suited to the context — with only one modern interloper (a clicking pen!) sneaking its way into the 19th century.

Lighting was crucial to this story — after all, it’s in the very title — and the team of Peter Gower, John Lyon, and Nigel Cropper executed the changes with spot-on timing. The ebb and fade of the gaslight worked well to heighten the drama and keep the tension alive. James Walton’s sound design further supported the atmosphere, subtle but effective throughout. Costumes by Janet Hardman and Lorraine Parry were beautifully chosen and suitably extravagant for the period, with only the occasional detail (modern earrings on the house staff) momentarily breaking the illusion.

Onstage, the acting was led with strength and conviction by Lindsay Farnworth as Bella Manningham who made a positive impact. Her portrayal of a woman caught in a web of manipulation was layered, emotional and compelling. From nervous uncertainty to quiet strength, Lindsay’s performance charted Bella’s transformation with such clarity and power that by the final scene you couldn’t take your eyes off her.

The household staff provided contrast and nuance, helping to contextualise the world of the play. Laura Duffy’s Nancy was delightfully rebellious — nonchalant, youthful, and cheekily skirting the boundaries of propriety. Her flirtations and betrayal added real spice to the dynamic of the household. By contrast, Irene Smith gave a well-judged performance as Elizabeth. Her cautious loyalty, her fear and quiet humour (including a delightful cat-like attempt to stay silent) gave her character a depth that grounded the piece.

John Derry as Jack Manningham captured the suave menace of the manipulative husband, while Peter Schofield brought a welcome steadiness and authority to Mr Rough. Together, they framed the psychological battle at the heart of the play. 

Overall, under the direction of Carol Butler, this Gaslight was a good production. A few tiny mishaps aside, the atmosphere, acting, and period detail worked to deliver an engaging evening of theatre. A tense, atmospheric, effective production – one Bolton Little Theatre can be proud of. Thank you for the invite and hospitality from my guest Georgina and I.

Craig Pinnington, D5 Ass’t Rep

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