The history and confusion surrounding Marilyn Monroe, the iconic figure of Hollywood’s Golden Age, who met her tragic end under mysterious circumstances is a well-known mystery. This compelling play delves deep into the five crucial hours between Marilyn’s death and the reporting of her apparent suicide and what may have happened, peeling back layers of intrigue and emotion to reveal the untold truths and turmoil surrounding her final moments. Set within the confines of a small theatre, the intimate space heightens the drama as Marilyn’s closest confidants gather to grapple with grief and uncertainty.

The production sets a sombre tone befitting its subject matter, delving into Marilyn Monroe’s final hours with a blend of suspense and emotional depth. Genevieve Gaunt's portrayal of Marilyn Monroe is haunting and nuanced, capturing both the vulnerability and resilience of the legendary star. Alongside her, Susie Amy as Pat Newcomb and Declan Bennett as Peter Lawford bring depth to their roles, navigating the emotional turmoil and conflicting accounts surrounding Marilyn’s death.

A special mention must be made for Natasha Colenso, who stepped into her role as Patricia Kennedy-Lawford at the last minute due to cast illness. Despite minimal rehearsal time, Colenso delivers an emotionally resonant performance, adding depth to the ensemble.

Directed with precision by Guy Masterson, the play effectively uses the small playing space to create an intimate and immersive experience. Set in the round with a revolving centre, the design utilises the space extensively, creating an immersive experience and allows the entire audience to see all characters throughout the heated scenes. Although this setup is different and interesting for the expectation of a tiny venue, it doesn’t significantly enhance the performance and would work as well in a traditional setting. The basic yet functional set design is perfect for the small venue, though it raises curiosity about how it could adapt to a larger space.

Throughout the performance, the narrative unfolds through a non-linear structure, shifting between pivotal moments in Marilyn’s life and the critical hours leading up to her demise. This approach adds depth to the exploration of Marilyn Monroe’s legacy but requires attentive viewing to follow the timeline seamlessly.

The play navigates the tense discussions and emotional confrontations between Marilyn’s inner circle, portraying the raw emotions and speculative conversations that followed her death. This poignant exploration of fame, relationships, and the darker side of Hollywood leaves a lasting impact on the audience.

A haunting portrayal of what may have occurred in Marilyn Monroe’s untold final hours – a must-see for fans of Hollywood history and mysteries.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Frances Tate

The Marilyn Conspiracy plays at the Park Theatre, London until 27 July, with further info here.