Twists, shocks and surprises in dark comedy at Leamington theatre

Anthony Horowitz’s Mindgame takes the stage at the Leamington theatre from tomorrow (Wednesday) until Saturday February 2.

Perhaps best known as the creator and screenwriter of the popular television series Foyle’s War and as the author of the Alex Rider schoolboy-spy novels, Horowitz is also an accomplished thriller writer.

In this stage adaptation of his original novel, Mark Styler, a writer of ‘true crime’ stories, arrives at the Fairfields experimental hospital for the criminally insane with the hope of interviewing serial killer Easterman for a new book. But the hospital’s director, Dr Farquhar, is very reluctant to grant his request.

Farquhar’s assistant, Nurse Plimpton, seems very anxious that he should leave immediately - but why? What is the danger and why does Farquhar want Styler to stay?

As the story darkens, the audience’s perceptions are challenged as the boundary between reality and imagination is made every more difficult to define.

Director Darren Scott said: “Mindgame is beautifully crafted with multiple layers and evident back stories interwoven with complex characters and pertinent social issues.

“It’s littered with dark comedy and not-so-light horror, plot twists, shocks and surprises. All the clues are there, hidden in full sight, but will the audience be able to unravel them before all is eventually revealed?”

Next Thursday (January 24), Nick Lancaster from Touch FM will compere a 45-minute question and answer session with Darren and the cast at the end of the performance.

The session will explore the psychology of serial killers – their motivations, their personalities – and challenge our definition of insanity.

Mindgame contains scenes of violence and is not suitable for children. Performances will start at 7.30pm each evening, except on Sundays when there are no performances.

Tickets are now available online and by calling the theatre box office from Monday to Friday on 0844 493 4938. Alternatively, they can be bought in person at the box office on Monday and Tuesday next week from 6.45pm to 8.30pm and on performance nights.

There are discounts available for under-25s and NUS card holders.