Gaslight

Unseen Wounds

Gaslight

by Shaira Yasmin Berg

CADS at The Etcetera Theatre until 20^th August

Review by Heather Moulson

Student Angela goes straight for the throat in the deceptively mellow opening scene of Gaslight. 

In this exploration of “a world where life-threatening physical wounds were treated the same as psychological trauma”, relationships fall apart quickly, and abruptly take the first steps towards a downward slope.  Arianna Munoz’s sensitive direction and quick pace works with the emotions, accusations and betrayals in a tense drama, new writing by Cambridge University students who are active in Cambridge Footlights and the Marlowe Society.

The set is simple, and Maisie Johnson’s lighting and sound are moody and effective.

We are with Scarlet and her shocking revelation all the way, and horrified then sympathetic with treacherous Angela.  Shaira Berg, the writer and producer, plays Scarlet with earnest intensity, while Sarah Walton-Smith presents a faceted portrayal of the less than angelic Angela.

The roles of five students and their tutor are played with subtlety and skill, in highly watchable acting performances. 

Although encumbered by the dark shadow of drugs, the sincere Katie gives as much sisterly support as she is able, in a nuanced portrayal by Alessandra Rey.  George Prentice plays Tate and Misha Koshutskyy plays Simon, showing insight into the characters, as does Melania Hamilton as the Tutor, a grounded presence.

Not one of the five students comes away unscathed in this tight script that develops skilfully over its fifty minutes, which build up to its tragic climax of this this strong and worthy drama.

Heather Moulson, August 2023

Photography courtesy of CADS