A gripping psychological thriller brought to life on stage, The Girl on the Train is a masterclass in book-to-theatre adaptation. Based on Paula Hawkins’ bestselling novel, which has sold over 20 million copies worldwide, this new stage production promises suspense, drama, and a performance that keeps you guessing until the very end—and it certainly delivers.
We’d like to extend our thanks to the New Theatre for inviting us along to this powerful production.
For those unfamiliar, the story follows Rachel Watson, a troubled alcoholic whose daily train journeys to London become an unhealthy obsession with a seemingly perfect couple she sees from the window. Struggling with her own past—including a broken marriage and lost job—Rachel soon finds herself entwined in a real-life mystery when the woman she’s been watching, Megan Hipwell, suddenly disappears.
Louisa Lytton gives a standout performance as Rachel Watson, anchoring the show with a raw and emotionally charged portrayal. Known to many for her role as Ruby Allen in EastEnders, Lytton brings Rachel’s vulnerability, confusion, and determination to the stage with remarkable authenticity. Her presence commands the audience’s attention throughout, as she walks the fine line between spectator and suspect.
She is supported by a strong cast, including:
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Jason Merrells as Tom Watson, Rachel’s ex-husband, delivering a solid and conflicted performance. Merrells is familiar from roles in Emmerdale, Waterloo Road and Casualty.
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Zena Carswell as Anna Watson, the new woman in Tom’s life.
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Samuel Collings as Scott Hipwell, Megan’s intense and grieving husband.
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Natalie Dunne as Megan Hipwell, whose tragic story is unveiled in unsettling detail—including a convincingly harrowing scene of domestic violence.
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Paul McEwan as D.I. Gaskill, the investigating officer, with previous credits including Holby City and Doctors.
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Daniel Burke as Kamal Abdic, Megan’s psychiatrist, who plays a key role in the unfolding drama.
The set design is simple yet remarkably effective, with digital backdrops and screen projections drawing the audience deeper into Rachel’s fractured reality. Clever lighting enhances the tension and gives the production a cinematic feel—at times you could be forgiven for thinking you were watching a film unfold live on stage. The use of sound is equally powerful, particularly during the climactic train track scene which had the audience on edge.
This production does not shy away from the darker aspects of the story—some scenes are uncomfortable to watch, as they should be. This is not a light-hearted evening out, but one that will stay with you long after the curtain falls.
Whether you’re a fan of the original novel or the 2016 film adaptation starring Emily Blunt, this stage version offers a fresh, immersive experience that stands firmly on its own merits. A suspenseful and emotional rollercoaster, The Girl on the Train is well worth a trip to the New Theatre this week.
Tickets: £24.00–£49.00 (plus transaction fee of up to £3.95)
For more info and to book tickets, visit newtheatrecardiff.co.uk
