The Grand Theatre Blackpool – until 21 February 2026
5 *****
The 2026 stage adaptation of Single White Female, adapted by Rebecca Reid based on an update to the classic 1990s thriller for the social media era and directed by Gordon Greenberg, is a modern psychological thriller set in England. It follows Allie who takes in a lodger which leads to a sinister and obsessive relationship.
Allie a recently divorced mother, is struggling to balance single parenthood with the launch of her tech start-up. Under financial pressure (ex-husband Sam has slashed child maintenance payments) she advertises for a lodger on the suggestion by her friend Graham to share her home and help with the expenses.
Hedy, a seemingly delightful and attentive woman, responds to the ad and as Allie feels she is the perfect, relatable, and charming choice, she accepts her as a lodger and quickly becomes a lifeline for Allie.
Unfortunately, Hedy is not as she seems and as their lives intertwine, Hedy’s admiration for Allie turns into a dark obsession. She begins to mirror Allie’s habits, appearance, and relationships, effectively trying to erase and replace her. Boundaries begin to blur as Hedy manipulates those around Allie, including her teenage daughter, Bella, and her ex-husband Sam.
The tension builds with themes of social media, digital footprint, and, in some interpretations, a “creeping metamorphosis” where Hedy seeks to steal Allie’s identity entirely. This results in the ‘perfect arrangement’ unravelling into a psychological battle for control, culminating in a tense confrontation where Allie must fight to reclaim her identity and protect her family.
This production is set in a modern, often high-tech, apartment that becomes a sentient presence reflecting the instability and danger of the situation. It explores themes of obsession, isolation, and the modern performance of self. It also features intense, dramatic moments that border on melodrama, characterized by a mix of psychological suspense and thriller elements.
Kym Marsh (Hedy) and Lisa Faulkner (Allie) had a controlling stage presence with their chemistry with Kym providing a measured and quietly unnerving performance, balancing fragility with menace and Lisa for bringing relatable warmth to her character. Jonny McGarrity (Sam) portrays him as likeable and light-spirited despite his reputation as a “womanising” and “alcoholic” ex-partner. Andro (Graham) provided some essential light relief and a grounded sense of humanity to the story. Finally, to Amy Snudden (Bella) for her standout performance bringing an emotional authenticity and realistic portrayal of a moody, insecure 15-year-old.
Special thanks also need to go to Morgan Large for the set and costume design with the well thought layout of the set and costumes which established a clear visual distinction between Allie “beige mum” and Heddy with her darker palette. Jason Taylor for the lighting design and Max Pappenheim for the sound design as both were very cleverly used creating some very creepy moments at times which added to the tension.
Single White Female will appeal to fans of the original film like me and who are curious to see how the story translates to a British setting and a modern context.
For theatregoers who enjoy thrillers with plenty of twists and intrigue, then this offers a fast-paced evening with a side of nostalgia.