‘The skill demonstrated to create tension. . . is expertly executed’
Lighthouse is set a few years after the end of World War One and placed in an equally masculine world of lighthouse keepers. A time when both physical and mental health was not spoken about.
We meet three keepers who we each – in turn – learn of their struggles in either tightly written monologues or clever throw-away comments.
The elements and isolation of the job bring these men to relive their pasts, but when a foreign stranger arrives on their remote island with no boat carrying diamonds, the play is set in motion for possible murder, betrayal and greed.
The Etcetera Theatre is a small space but very workable and here, Amy Clayton – the shows director – uses the space excellently. The skill demonstrated to create tension and avoid masking – unless a deliberate decision – is expertly executed. Her decision to make the stranger an invisible man (spoiler) felt like a stroke of genius, giving the audience a ‘ghost’. An unseen entity who would look different for each keeper based on their horrors. Although stemming from the same horror, their torment is inherently personal.
A very basic set with smart lighting and impeccable sound cues creates great dread and intense claustrophobia.
The cast consists of the writer Justin Cartledge, as ‘Morgan’, Darren Matthews as ‘Mac’, and Richard Orchard-Rowe as ‘James’.
Justin gives a lovely, understated performance that provides truth depth; one of the show’s highlights is the short story he tells about a horse in France during the war.
Darren’s character seems to be the wise elder of the small group, until his true character emerges…his breakdown regarding the men in France screaming – a haunting echo to all of these men’s pasts – followed by his return with of fury was wonderful to see.
At first seemingly naïve, James is quickly motivated by greed, and it is all consuming for him. Richard does a believable job at manoeuvring between these two identities with ease.
After a breath-taking finale…the script returns to pose a question. (Spoiler).
It may not be ‘just the past that haunts you’, but it most certainly condemns you.
‘Lighthouse’ is sold as horror thriller, landing in the murder-mystery and philosophical conundrum ballpark. Watch it – you should – and you’ll understand exactly what I mean. All will leave enjoying the tension of this show, but some will question ‘What did it mean?’ Will that question reduce their enjoyment? For me, it elevates it.
The piece is exciting and executed very well, my only negative is that I wanted more. There is a shift about halfway through which I would’ve liked expanding, but this is a very minor thing and in no way impeded my enjoyment. Being a show of the Fringe, I do appreciate that time restrictions are stringent!
‘Lighthouse’, by Early Doors Productions is a very strong piece of theatre which is absolutely worth catching if you can.
Review Date: 6th August 2026
Star rating: FOUR