“Gaslight” Demonstrates Well Where the Word Comes From

When a term or phrase becomes so associated with a concept that it is the definitive description, it takes on a life of its own. Such is “Gaslight” – the play, originally written in 1938, illustrates the idea of someone, in this case a woman in the Victorian era, being manipulated with the intent of driving her insane.  The abuser is her husband, trying to hide his real motivations for odd things occurring, and wanting to get her out of the way in an institution.

To this day, “gaslighting” is synonymous with a person intentionally trying to harm someone’s mental health for their own gain, and Oil Lamp Theater’s production of this seminal theatrical work is most excellent in portraying the disturbing, methodical plot of Jack Manningham to mislead and misuse his wife Bella. Sam Fain’s Mr. Manningham is all at once egomaniac, bully, and human emotional bludgeon, callous and trying in his manner. Megan Kueter as Bella is trying to be a good wife, her efforts torpedoed at every turn, and Ms. Kueter’s build at the dramatic climax is hauntingly real.

Dina Monk gives great underpinning strength and courage to the main maid Elizabeth, underplaying it just right. Nancy (Charlotte Jaffe) is very much the wench in every aspect of the word. And James Sparling’s characterization of Rough is anything but, the consummate inspector giving little, seeing everything, and moving swiftly when an opening presents itself to boldly pursue justice.

The well-decorated vintage set makes for a strident, up-close and personal presentation, adding to the horror and swift strides for truth. Whether you have not seen the play that inspired the word for personal psychological warfare, or already appreciate this masterpiece of film noir theater, you will want to see Oil Lamp’s great take. But the lights go dim for the final time November 2nd, so make haste to www.oillamptheater.org for tickets or more information.

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