Reviewed by Anna-Celine Rautenberg

“Turpentine” is a bold and unsettling new gothic play that grips its audience with an intoxicating blend of horror, dark humor, and psychological intensity. Written by Tommy James Green, who also stars as the tormented Dr. Raymond Crow, this eerie production marks the debut of Popular Playhouse at Flight Path Theatre, running from February 19th to March 1st.

Set in the winter of 1887, Turpentine unfolds in a London ravaged by disease and desperation. The story follows Cynthia Milton (Megan Elizabeth Kennedy) and her brother Percy (Freddy Hellier) as they bring the lifeless body of Cynthia’s seven-year-old son, Tiberius, to the door of the gin-soaked surgeon Dr. Crow. Deep beneath his barbershop, within a basement filled with electrifying mechanisms, Crow offers them a sliver of hope—but at what cost? As the night descends into madness, guilt, and grotesque science, the boundaries between life and death begin to blur. Green himself describes it as “the monstrous love child of Frankenstein and Sweeney Todd, crackling with Wildean wit as our characters descend into madness.”

At the heart of the play is Green’s own portrayal of Dr. Crow. His embodiment of the gin-soaked doctor showcases a deep understanding of the Gothic genre, bringing both intensity and nuance to the role. Green expressed his enthusiasm for the premiere, stating, “A couple of kinks to iron out, but everyone in the cast is absolutely thrilled.” 

Megan Elizabeth Kennedy brings a heartbreaking depth to the role of Cynthia, a woman grasping for answers in an increasingly sinister world. Her interactions with Green’s Dr. Crow are some of the play’s most gripping moments, loaded with tension and emotional weight.

Freddy Hellier steps into the shoes of Arthur Percy Milton, Cynthia’s mute brother. Despite the character’s silence, Hellier’s expressive performance speaks volumes, capturing the audience’s attention with his nuanced portrayal. Discussing the challenges of his role, Hellier mentioned, “Every minute of the play, I’m just at the back wanting to say something or interact… and I’m just like, I can’t.” This restraint adds a unique layer to his character, making his moments on stage profoundly impactful.

Cris Bocchi shines as Madame Moreau, the enigmatic French mystic. Bocchi’s linguistic prowess and dynamic stage presence bring authenticity and vibrancy to the character. Reflecting on her experience, Bocchi shared,“I feel like Moreau, my character, is a big present… it’s so nicely written.” Her genuine connection to the role is palpable, enhancing the overall production.

Meanwhile, Charles Griffin – only fifteen years old – has one of the most chilling roles in the production as young Tiberius Milton. For the majority of the play, Griffin’s presence is eerily silent, his body lying motionless on a table. Yet in the final moments, he delivers a single, spine-tingling line. Griffin himself described the pressure of delivering such a key moment: “You need to get it right, and you need to just send chills down.” He certainly succeeds.

Nevertheless, Turpentine is not without its challenges. The play incorporates a variety of accents, ranging from upper-class English to Cockney and French, which adds a fascinating layer of authenticity to the production. However, this linguistic complexity also demands the viewer’s attention.

Directed by Katherine Hopwood Poulsen, Turpentine is a haunting and ambitious debut for Popular Playhouse. It pushes boundaries, demands attention, and leaves its audience unnerved in the best way possible. Green and his cast have crafted something special—an eerie, thought-provoking, and unforgettable journey into the darkness of human nature. As the show continues its run, it’s poised to refine its edges and solidify its place in contemporary theatre.

“Turpentine” is a daring and evocative production that challenges its audience while delivering a rich and immersive experience. The play stands out as a significant contribution to modern theatre, promising to leave a lasting impression on all who attend.