From the silver screen to the WMC stage, Single White Female sashays into Cardiff as a sleek psychological thriller reborn for the digital age. Based on the cult 1992 movie and adapted by Rebecca Reid, this world-premiere stage production offers razor-edge suspense wrapped in sharp social commentary.
At the heart of the story is Allie, a newly divorced mum striving to reboot her life while juggling a tech start-up and single parenthood. When she advertises for a lodger, Hedy arrives like a dream roommate – considerate, engaging, and just what Allie’s life seemingly needed. But as their worlds entwine, the warmth between them cools into something far more chilling.
Kym Marsh delivers a standout performance as Hedy, imbuing the character with a beguiling blend of charm and menace that keeps you guessing at every turn. Her portrayal makes Hedy unsettling not because she’s a caricature of villainy, but because she’s eerily believable. Alongside her, Lisa Faulkner’s Allie is both vulnerable and compelling, grounding the play’s emotional core with thoughtful nuance.
The production thrives on atmospheric tension. Sudden noises, flashes of light, and a pulsing soundscape create a sensory experience that keeps the audience alert and slightly on edge throughout the 2 hrs 10 mins running time. The story’s updated framing – spotlighting social media’s role in identity, connection, and obsession – gives this classic tale fresh teeth.
It’s not just a nostalgic nod to 90s thriller fans; it’s a reflection on modern loneliness, the fragility of self-image, and the dangerous allure of being truly seen. While the narrative occasionally leans into theatrical stylisation, the emotional stakes and character work make those moments feel purposeful rather than overwrought.
In all, Single White Female is a gripping, stylish ride that taps into both familiar fears and contemporary anxieties – a perfect fit for an evening at the Wales Millennium Centre and a must-see for fans of intelligent, character-driven theatre.
