The Flat Rock Playhouse has once again proven its prowess in delivering a remarkable theatrical experience with its production of "The Girl on the Train." This adaptation of the gripping psychological thriller by Paula Hawkins comes alive on stage in a way that is both visually and audibly mesmerizing.

The collaborative efforts of the technical team, led by projection designer Patrick Lord, lighting designer Ben Hamann, sound designer Kurt Davis, and set designer Dennis Maulden, have culminated in a theatrical masterpiece that raises the bar for immersive storytelling.

From the moment the lights come up on the Leiman Mainstage, the audience is transported into a world of intrigue and suspense thanks to the stunning visual and auditory effects that permeate the production. Patrick Lord's innovative use of projections takes the stage from minimalist to mesmerizing, seamlessly blending scenes and locations to mirror the protagonist's fractured reality. The dynamic interplay between the projected imagery and the physical set creates an otherworldly atmosphere that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.

Complementing the projections, Ben Hamann's dramatic lighting design is a character in its own right, casting shadows and highlights that mirror the emotional rollercoaster of the narrative. The interplay of light and darkness not only enhances the mystery but also serves as a metaphor for the protagonist's quest to illuminate the truth amidst her own personal darkness.

Kurt Davis' sound design adds another layer of immersion to the production. The carefully curated auditory elements, from haunting echoes to tense crescendos to a beating heart that pays homage to Edgar Allen Poe’s “The Tell-Tale Heart”, all heighten the suspense and draw the audience further into the world of "The Girl on the Train." Every sound seems meticulously chosen to evoke the perfect emotional response.

Dennis Maulden's set design is a masterclass in creating an environment that seamlessly supports the story. The ingeniously designed set, which shifts between the different locations of the narrative, serves as a canvas for the technical effects to shine. Maulden's ability to efficiently transform the stage into various settings allows the audience to traverse the intricate web of the storyline effortlessly.

Even the most exceptional technical elements, however, would fall flat without a talented cast to bring the characters to life. Director Lisa Bryant’s keen eye for talent has assembled a cast that is both authentic and compelling. Leslie Collins, in the role of the troubled protagonist, delivers a riveting performance. Her portrayal of a woman grappling with fragmented memories and the weight of murder charges is haunting as she captures the essence of the character's emotional turmoil and keeps the audience empathetically invested in her journey. Collin’s fellow actors skillfully breathe life into their characters, infusing the narrative with a palpable sense of authenticity and emotional depth.

Ultimately, the production is a theatrical triumph that is visually stunning, emotionally resonant and captivates from beginning to end. Perhaps initially overshadowed by other titles in the FRP 2023 season, The Girl on the Train has emerged from those shadows to claim its position as “must-see” theatre at the Playhouse this year. In short, both avid and casual theater enthusiasts would be remiss to miss out on what is undoubtedly the sleeper hit of the season.