Veronica’s Room is not for the faint-hearted.
Currently playing at Merthyr Road Uniting Church, produced by Nash Theatre, the play by Ira Levin (known for his other work Rosemary’s Baby) is a twisted psychological thriller unafraid of broaching taboos.
A content warning for disturbing and abusive scenes is due for the prospective theatregoer.
But lovers of horror, especially psychological games, will find the show intriguing.
Two time periods and their respective cultures collide: the 70s, where it is ostensibly set, and the 30s, when a young girl died in tragic circumstances – or so we are told.
When Susan is approached by an old couple at a restaurant due to her resemblance to this young girl, Veronica, she agrees to dress as her to bring comfort to her delusional and dying elderly sister.
But upon arriving at her home, perceptions are challenged and the question emerges as to who Veronica really was.
Take a look at the posters strewn across the tables in the intermission for a clue as to where the story might go.
The cast – Al Bromback, Ellie Bickerdike, John Stibbard and Alex Thompson – rise to the challenge of embodying these warped characters and imbuing a dark storyline with moments of warmth and black humour.
The way the storyline cleverly brings together every new twist by the end will have you shaking your head in shock and horror.
If you dare, the play is on until August 30. Get tickets at nashtheatre.com/play-3-2025.
To go in the draw to win a double pass to the show, email [email protected] with ‘Veronica’s Room’ in the subject line and your name and number in the email body to go in the running to win. Winner will be contacted by email.
