Review: LET THE RIGHT ONE IN, Royal Exchange Theatre

Photo credit: Johan Persson

Based on the Swedish novel and film by John Ajvide Lindqvist, Let The Right One In is a horror set in the 1980s, adapted for stage by Jack Thorne in 2013 and now this new production of the play comes to the stage of the Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester for the Halloween season.

Constantly bullied at school and feeling alone at home, Oskar is a lonely teenager until he meets his new neighbour Eli and the two form an unusual friendship.  However, something seems off about Eli and there appears to be a mysterious killer on the loose.  Oskar slowly unravels the truth about his new friend and the events in his home town which tests the limits of Oskar and Eli’s relationship.

This chilling new production is directed by Bryony Shanahan and they have done a splendid job of it, setting the tone of the production right from the get go with a brilliantly staged gory moment.  The intensity of each of these gruesome moments is heightened by the accompaniment of bold striking lighting states from lighting designer Joshua Pharo.  Through the more heart-warming sections of the play, there is still an unsettling eerie undertone, which prevents the energy flow from losing momentum and helps continue to build up to the climactic moments.

The entire cast are marvellous, especially Rhian Blundell playing the role of Eli who, with the assistance of movement director Yandass Ndlovu, brings a great physicality to the character to distinguish a dissimilarity between her role and the rest of the cast.  Pete Machale also gives a standout performance as the show’s protagonist Oskar, bringing a young, naïve innocent energy to beautifully contrast to the darker themes of the piece.  Another special mention must be given to the Royal Exchange Theatre Young Company who had the opportunity to be featured in the production as supporting ensemble members, giving theatregoers a glimpse at some of the up-and-coming talent in Manchester.

Amelia Jane Hankin as the production’s designer has created a whole world with set design that is more complex than first meets the eye.  From a climbing frame where the foundations of Oskar and Eli’s friendship are formed and a mysterious woodland, to moving boxes and illuminated floor panels to manipulate the shape of scene locations, the set design inspires imagination.

Not for the faint of heart, Let The Right One In is a gory yet emotionally powerful story that chills audiences.  With stunning staging and lighting, and tremendous performances from the cast, you do not want to miss this production.  We invite you to book your tickets and step inside the Royal Exchange Theatre to see the spooky sensation Let The Right One In.

***** Five stars

Reviewed by: Jess Dalloway

Let The Right One In plays at the Royal Exchange Theatre until 19 November, with tickets available here.