The Girl On The Train 🚋

Leeds Grand Theatre.

Last night, I was lucky enough to be invited to attend the Press Night for The Girl On The Train at the Leeds Grand Theatre in Leeds. A special thank you to Kelly for this invitation.

Book ✔️

Film ✔️

Theatre production ✔️

Adapted from Paula Hawkins’ bestselling book, the play whisks the audience into the turbulent life of Rachel Watson, whose obsession with a seemingly perfect couple leads her into a dark and dangerous mystery.

This stage version is fast-paced and gripping, building tension beautifully with each scene.

This was my first time seeing Laura Whitmore perform live on stage, and she was outstanding. She brings incredible depth to Rachel, shifting seamlessly between moments of heartbreak, vulnerability and steely determination.

Whitmore has a magnetic stage presence, and it was impossible to look away whenever she was on. She completely inhabits the role, making Rachel’s confusion and desperation feel achingly real.

The production values were superb. The set cleverly evoked the train journeys and shifting scenes of suburban life with sleek, moving panels and atmospheric projections. The sound and lighting design worked hand in hand to keep the audience on edge, particularly during key moments of revelation.

Without giving anything away, the twist towards the end was spectacular to watch unfold. The combination of sharp lighting changes, an eerie soundscape and clever staging made it feel electrifying and genuinely shocking. It was a brilliant piece of theatre craft that drew audible gasps from the audience.

The entire cast delivered strong performances, creating a world full of suspicion and secrets. The production successfully captures the essence of the book while adding an immediacy and intimacy unique to live theatre.

The Girl on the Train is on tour at Leeds Grand Theatre from the 1st of July to the 5th of July 2025. Tickets are still available, and you can buy your tickets here. I’d highly recommend catching it. It’s a powerful, edge-of-your-seat experience, led by a phenomenal performance from Laura Whitmore.