REVIEW: THE GIRL IN THE GREEN ROOM by Luke Adamson at Bridge House Theatre, Penge 31 Oct - 11 Nov 2023

‘a show to experience as it gets under the skin’ ★★★★★ 

The play is inspired by THE GREEN ROOM written by Penge’s very own Walter De La Mare in 1925. This entirely new work by Luke Adamson, is a theatrical treat ideal for the season, a ghostly gothic horror.  With minimal black box staging, it relies on its astonishing number of sound and lighting cues to give atmosphere and add a sense of impending doom. 

Thomas, a young writer, dives into a bookshop to avoid a raging storm. Inside, all alone, he begins browsing the bookshelves in the gloomy red glow of the walls, but he quickly begins to feel a presence.  The tension builds as the story unfolds.

Joseph Lindoe as Thomas is perfect for the role with the clarity of his annunciation and his whiskered appearance, he conjures up a gentleman of a bygone age. The script also helps with the period feel and Luke Adamson in his role as director keeps the pacing appropriately sedate. 

The best aspect of the show is the ease with which it is possible to suspend disbelief.  Lindoe’s mime is so accurate. For anyone who is used to the rush of the 21^st century, this might feel like a forgotten world unfolding in a kind of slow motion. It feels like a show to experience as it gets under the skin. A spooky tale from another era, reminiscent of Edgar Allen Poe, Daphne du Maurier or indeed, Walter De La Mare.  

The Girl In The Green Room

Bridge House Theatre in Penge

31 Oct – 11 Nov 2023

Box Office https://thebridgehousetheatre.co.uk/shows/the-girl-in-the-green-room/

Written, designed and directed by Luke Adamson

Performed by Joe Lindoe with voice over by Laura White

Reviewed by Heather Jeffery, Editor of London Pub Theatres Magazine