Gaslight/Deceived
By Patty Jamieson & Johnna Wright
GASLIGHT/DECEIVED (or such other title as may be from time to time agreed in writing between the Parties)
based on Patrick Hamilton’s play
an adaptation by Johnna Wright and Patty Jamieson
“I know it sounds mad, but — I think there is something, someone, up in the attic.”
Bella Manningham thinks she’s losing her mind. In the evenings, she hears strange sounds and the gas lights dim for no apparent reason. But is she losing her grip on reality, or is it being loosened for her?
Patrick Hamilton’s 1938 play gave us the word we now use for an insidious form of mental abuse. This Canadian adaptation reimagines the classic thriller from a modern perspective, with a “what if” that takes Bella’s life in a new and dangerous direction. In this Gaslight, there is no police inspector to swoop in and solve the mystery. No one is coming to save Bella. The question is, will she be able to find the strength – and cunning – to save herself?
