The Girl on the Train: A Thrilling Stage Adaptation of Paula Hawkins' Novel

Image credits: Pamela Raith

The Girl on the Train, a bestselling novel by Paula Hawkins, has been adapted into a stage play, bringing the thrilling story to life with its complex characters and intriguing plot. The play follows Rachel Watson, a commuter who becomes obsessed with a perfect couple she spots on her daily train ride, only to discover that the wife, Megan, has gone missing. As Rachel delves deeper into the mystery, she finds herself drawn into a world of twists and turns, where nothing is as it seems.

The stage adaptation, written by Rachel Wagstaff and Duncan Abel, has received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its pace and twists, while others feel that it lacks the essence of the original novel. The play features a talented cast, including Giovanna Fletcher as Rachel Watson, Samuel Collings as Scott Hipwell, and Natalie Dunn as Megan Hipwell. The production's simple yet effective staging and eerie music add to the overall atmosphere of the play, keeping the audience guessing until the final dramatic denouement.

One of the challenges of adapting a novel like The Girl on the Train for the stage is capturing the complex psychological shifting sands and extreme internalisation that make the book so special. The play's use of funky projections, strange stylisations, and backstage headlines attempts to convey the novel's unique aspects, but some critics feel that it falls short. Despite this, the play remains a good night out, with fine acting and a gripping storyline that explores themes of obsession, memory, and the blurred lines between reality and imagination.

The play's cast delivers strong performances, with Giovanna Fletcher bringing a full-on and passionate portrayal of Rachel Watson to the stage. Samuel Collings and Natalie Dunn also shine as Scott and Megan Hipwell, bringing depth and nuance to their characters. The play's second half is particularly effective, with a haunting scene featuring Megan's recollection of her personal tragedy standing out as a highlight. However, some critics feel that the play's tone can be uneven at times, with Rachel's encounters with the policeman and therapist feeling implausible.

Overall, The Girl on the Train is a thrilling stage adaptation that is sure to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. While it may not capture the full essence of the original novel, it remains a gripping and entertaining night out, with a talented cast and a complex, twisty plot. For fans of the book, the play is a must-see, and for those new to the story, it is an excellent introduction to the world of Rachel Watson and the mysterious events that unfold. The play's exploration of gaslighting and the manipulation of memory adds an extra layer of depth to the story, making it a thought-provoking and unsettling watch.