American novelist Patricia Highsmith wrote the story of The Talented Mr. Ripley was 70 years ago, yet the story is still popular today. With the advance in technology and onstreet cameras, it never has the phrase used by Tom Ripley to be more relevant, “Have you ever had the feeling that you are being watched?” and I would guess most theatre audience members could answer “yes” to this question.

Ed McVey in the role of the seemingly all-round nice guy Tom Ripley and Maisie Smith as Marge Sherwood star in the latest touring stage production of The Talented Mr Ripley. The touring production of the psychological thriller has been adapted for the stage by Mark Leipacher to entertain and intrigue theatre goers.

Ripley is approached by Herbert Greenleaf (Christopher Bianchi) who offers to pay Ripley to find his son Dickie (Bruce Herbelin-Earle) and return him back to the family home as his Mother is ill and wants him to return. He accepts the offer, and unbeknown to Ripley, he is about to embark on a life changing adventure.

The seemingly innocent Ripley soon learns that in order to survive, he has to change to fit into his surroundings and becomes the master of manipulation, which even involves impersonation and taking on another identity. All of this is to cover his tracks and try to put people off the scent of his misdemeanours. It is hardly a surprise he feels like he is being watched.

Holly Pigott’s minimalist set allows for unexpected entrances and exits of the ensemble characters, which heightens the drama at times and keeps Ripley on his toes as he navigates through Europe, never quite sure if he is about to get caught out or find himself in another dangerous situation.

For more information about The Talented Mr Ripley and future productions at The Lighthouse Theatre in Poole, please use the link below.

Three Stars.

Photo credit Mark Senior.

https://thetalentedmrripleyplay.com/