Who Is There in the Darkness (Redline Performing Arts)
Wait Until Dark
By Frederick Knott
Directed by Tyler Tate
Review by Kate Barry
Entire contents are copyright © 2026 Kate Barry. All rights reserved.
The lights are off. A door shuts. The floor creaks. Who is there? The life of a woman who is blind is endangered as she is targeted by criminals. Wait Until Dark with Redline Performing Arts brings suspense to the stage right before Halloween. An innocent woman outsmarts the criminals as darkness creeps in and the thrills grow to a pitch.
Walking into the Broadway theatre, the space lends itself to a claustrophic feeling as black scrim surrounds the seating. What is seen, not seen and believed is a crucial theme throughout the play and manifests itself through smart lighting and technical choices. Beginning with actors lurking in shadows in the small basement apartment, an eery tone is set. The mastermind behind the invasion dons dark round sunglasses and thick gloves as to not be identified. Clear photographs hang on the wall with definition while a window hangs center stage, with expertly placed mysterious figures on the other side during key moments. The manipulation of dark shadows and an ever present “whirring” sound creates a sense of unease throughout the show. An unease that grows to an action packed fight sequence at the plays conclusion.
As Susy, Bella Spencer is “not so helpless” in her portrayal of a person who has lost their vision. Avoiding all outlandish gestures, her mannerisms of navigating her home are respectful and realistic. Spencer’s Susy is a strong, confident person not restrained by limitation. Like any great detective, Spencer brings detail oriented scrutiny and observations as she questions the mysterious actions happening around her. Kyle Braun gives loving support as her husband Sam, who trusts her growing independence without enabling her. Elliott Ann Lanier’s Gloria brings comedic moments as the young girl who assists Susy. Lanier gives well timed comedy whether she is lying or disgruntled yet she proves herself noble as she helps Susy in her struggle with her invaders.
Susy comes face to face with the three criminals as they spin webs of deceit and antagonize her. Alonzo Cook’s Mike creates a long con as he manipulates Susy, lying about his connections and past in the military. Cook does well to create a false sense of friendship while facing an inner conflict of harming Susy to gain their coveted doll. Derek Guy’s Carlino is calculating, posing as a detective yet sneaking into her home. Susy finds herself in an altercation with Roat, the cunning instigator behind the invasion. With a Patrick Bateman-like swagger, Cooper Barlett’s performance shows total disregard of pity or empathy. Behind the dark spectacles, Barlett's performance is villainous within its exploitation.
Wait Until Dark is such a scary story due to its realistic nature. The idea of a woman who is blind targeted by intruders has caused thrills since the 1966 Broadway run and the 1967 film starring Audrey Hepburn. As the intensified final moments of the play proves, Susy might have lost her sight, but her perception is clear.
Wait Until Dark
October 23-30, 2026
The Historic Broadway Theater and Event Venue
816 E. Broadway
Louisville, KY. 40204
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