THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN
New Theatre, Cardiff
Tue 12-Sat 16 Nov
The stage adaptation of Paula Hawkins’ thriller novel-turned-film comes to Cardiff’s New Theatre this November. Directed by Anthony Banks, the play premiered last year and has been touring the UK in 2019. Banks has many directorial accolades, with a proven track record for stage adaptations of thrillers – including Strangers On A Train, based on the Patricia Highsmith novel, and new productions of Gaslight the 1938 play written by Patrick Hamilton. The latter was adapted into two classic film noirs in the 1940s and is now practically a byword for psychologically damaging relationships.
Samantha Womack has been cast as protagonist Rachel Watson. Womack’s previous credits include Ronnie Mitchell in EastEnders and she’s also had leading roles in 90s TV series Game On, plus more recent box office hit The Kingsman, and stage productions of Guys And Dolls and South Pacific. Oliver Farnworth has been cast opposite Womack as Scott Hipwell; with an extensive on-stage career, he’s previously features in Hollyoaks and as Andy Carver in Coronation Street, too.
For those not familiar with The Girl On The Train’s storyline, Rachel escapes her own troubled life by observing the life of seemingly perfect couple, Megan and Scott Hipwell, on her daily commute. The couple are neighbours to Rachel’s ex-husband Tom Watson and his new wife, Anna, with whom Rachel has a toxic relationship. When Megan disappears, Rachel becomes a witness and eventually a suspect, eventually carrying out her own investigation using scraps of memory from alcohol-induced blackouts.
Hawkins’ original book is a hugely successful bestseller, though the film adaptation starring Emily Blunt was received in a more subdued manner, despite plentiful shades of Rear Window. This adaptation, written by Rachel Wagstaff (who also adapted Agatha Christie’s The Mirror Crack’d earlier this year) and Duncan Abel, has thus far been receiving far higher accolades. The plot escalates into a gripping whodunit, one that’s sure to captivate audiences this autumn.
words LAUREN PHILLIMORE
Tickets: £17-£37. Info: 029 2087 8889 / www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk
