Neon Gaslight: Classic Theatre Reimagined
Step into a vibrant 1980s world where manipulation meets dark humour. Neon Gaslight redefines the classic Gaslight play with a neon-lit twist.
Join us for a staged reading!
Saturday, July 25
2:00 - 4:00 pm
Manor Park Memorial Hall
11 Briscoe Street West
Join us for a staged reading of Neon Gaslight, an adaptation by Melissa Parker inspired by Patrick Hamilton’s classic psychological thriller Gaslight, developed in collaboration with Odesa Company.
Set against the neon glow and cultural backdrop of the 1980s, Neon Gaslight explores manipulation, control, domestic abuse, memory and the slow unraveling of truth inside a seemingly perfect household. Darkly funny, unsettling and painfully relevant, this new adaptation reimagines the story for a modern audience while examining the devastating effects of emotional abuse and gaslighting.
CAST
Bella — Julianna Goertzen
Jack — Sam Didi
Liz — Izzy Siebert
Nan — Tessa Dang
Mrs. Rough — Robin Shugar-Pollock
Mr. Rough — Dan Curtis
Entry to the staged reading will be by donation, with proceeds supporting the Women’s Rural Resource Centre.
Following the reading, audiences are invited to stay for a feedback and discussion session as the creative team continues developing the script toward a full production planned for 2027.
Whether you love theatre, psychological thrillers, new Canadian works, or supporting conversations around women’s experiences and abuse awareness, we invite you to be part of this important stage in the creative process.
RSVP Here: https://forms.gle/fnVnAZnWF6AQSvpQ7
Team
Melissa Parker
Playwright
Odesa Company
Producer
New Modern Adaptation of Gaslight: A Victorian Thriller by Patrick Hamilton
This version blends dark humour, psychological tension, and social commentary into a tight, naturalistic one-setting thriller.
SYNOPSIS
This reimagining of Gaslight examines the emotional and psychological turmoil of intimate partner abuse — the very dynamic that gave rise to the modern term “gaslighting.” The story unfolds over one weekend in the home of Bella, a widowed mother seeking stability, whose daughter Liz returns from university with her best friend Nan. When Bella’s new boyfriend Jack begins displaying unsettling behaviour, small inconsistencies and strange moments accumulate, raising questions about trust, manipulation and mental health.
While the themes are serious, the production embraces a balance of dark humour and 80s kitsch aesthetics, maintaining tension while also creating space for levity, style, and character-driven wit. Because this subject matter is important, the creative team hopes to partner with local women’s organizations to ensure the work is handled with care and to support those impacted by abuse.
CHARACTERS
BELLA (40s)
A kind, trusting widower trying to rebuild her life. Vulnerable but not weak. She begins the play unsure of her own sense of reality but grows in clarity and strength as the truth unfolds. Emotional range needed.
LIZ (20s)
Bella’s daughter, home from university. Smart, observant, and protective of her mom. The moral centre of the story. Needs strong instincts for naturalism and quick shifts between humour, dread, and righteous fury.
NAN (20s)
Liz’s best friend. A little sharper-edged, worldlier, and bolder in confronting Jack’s behaviour. Excellent comedic timing with the ability to ground the darker scenes. Loyal and brave.
JACK (40s)
Bella’s charismatic but predatory new boyfriend. Charming, manipulative, and calculated. A man who can convincingly play “perfect partner” while hiding violent intent. Actor must navigate dual personas with subtle menace.
MR & MRS ROUGH (40s–60s)
Nan’s aunt and uncle, a seasoned detective and social worker. Blunt and deeply protective.