Saint Maud is yet another original work playing at the Live Theatre, just in time for Halloween. Based on the 2019 horror film by Rose Glass, it is a tale of religious fervour gone horribly wrong. Set in the north-east (unlike the movie), the play follows Maud, a young nurse who arrives in a seaside town to take care of Amanda, a former actress dying of cancer. As the play goes on, it becomes clear that Maud’s sweet, childlike demeanour hides a history of religious trauma that will eventually drive her to madness. This madness results in proselytising, aggressive behaviour, violence, and one incredibly uncomfortable nightclub scene. The adaption from screen to stage heightens the original film’s sense of claustrophobia, with a cast of only three actresses and most of the action restricted to Amanda’s bedroom. The set is crafted specifically to create a sense of unease - it features an inexplicably sloping stage and a multitude of unpleasant surprises. It’s a slow burn, but, as with the film, the truly horrifying ending is what really makes it. Altogether, it’s a perfectly spooky Halloween night out. (Note: Saint Maud is at Live Theatre until 2 November.)

Sid Phoebus

Pic: Von Fox Promotions