Strangers on a Train, The Gielgud Theatre

Alfred Hitchcock, the godfather of suspense and psychological thrillers, endures today as a cinematic legend. Last year, on the 99th anniversary of his first film, the BFI ran a special season celebrating his strange, sadistic genius. You may not have seen a Hitchcock film, but you will certainly have felt his influence. His bold, experimental style and ceaseless pushing of all boundaries surrounding sex and violence paved the way for future filmmakers; North by Northwest is even described as the first James Bond film. His Academy award-nominated Strangers On A Train (based on the 1950 novel by Patricia Highsmith) has been adapted for the stage, opening at the Gielgud Theatre this month. The Gielgud is the perfect home for Hitchcock: a sweeping, beautiful building with gothic character in the heart of theatre land. It’s dramatic - just like the man himself. 

Taking Hitchcock from screen to stage is no mean feat but a successful transition is made thanks to the brilliant Craig Warner, writer of the Bafta-nominated The Queen’s Sister , and the brains behind this adaptation. Having gathered critical acclaim across several productions worldwide, Culture Whisper expects its latest incarnation to be just as big a hit in London. 

So, we know we have excellent material - but what of the cast? We are thrilled by the stellar line-up of British talent: Laurence Fox, Jack Huston (nephew of Anjelica) and Imogen Stubbs are all set to tread the Gielgud’s boards. The American Robert Allan Ackerman (The Roman Spring of Mrs Stone) directs, making a nod to Hitchcock’s influence.

With astounding production credentials and foundations laid out by one of the great scare-geniuses of Hollywood we expect this show to be popular. Culture Whisper recommends that you book now for a brilliant, and terrifying journey. You’ll think twice before you next talk to a stranger on a train.

Tickets: £19.50 - £59.50

Address & Map:  Shaftesbury Ave, W1D 6AR  

Nearest Tube: Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square