Review: 'Wait Until Dark' by Harlequin Productions
Originally published on The JOLT News on January 28, 2026
Hairs raised upon my arms, spine tingling, eyes wide open, nothing could distract me from what was happening right in front of me during "Wait Until Dark" by Harlequin Productions.
All I knew about this iconic play going into the show was that Audrey Hepburn once starred in the film adaptation and that the girl in it was blind. I did not realize how thrilling it was going to be or how revolutionary and the way we look at people with limitations.
Immediately after the show, I put the film version on hold at the library, but something tells me it is not gonna be nearly the same as this love letter to noir that director Aaron Lamb has created. Audrey Hepburn may have been my childhood idol, but she is going to have a hard time competing with the sincerity, emotional depth, humor and charm that Helen Harvester brought to the stage as Susan.
Did the two above names sound familiar to you? Aaron Lamb is the Producing Artistic Director of Harlequin Productions, and Helen Harvester is the Marketing and Communications Director. Both of their passion toward this production was evident and keenly felt in every single detail of the show.
Throughout this column, I will share some things that stood out to me, but I cannot emphasize enough that this show was so unique and unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. I tend to have very high standards when it comes to any Harlequin show because they have elevated their craft so well, but this goes beyond anything I’ve seen them produce. It would be truly regretful to miss the show.
Accounting for every detail
My breath was immediately taken away by the incredible set design. I wondered if I was experiencing a sort of spooky Pleasantville, where I was sucked into a film of the past where everything was in monochrome. Having romanticized daydreams about black and white films plenty in my lifetime is actually sort of a dream come true to actually experience what a black and white atmosphere would feel like. It was dramatic, artistic, visually pleasing and historically accurate.
The lighting design was immersive and supportive of the goals of the show. There were a couple moments where the lighting felt a little warm, but when you contrast it to the rest of the show and especially what is done and the second act, it all adds up and is cohesive. How can lighting design be so immersive you ask? Just watch the show and you’ll know what I mean.
Bravo to the entire crew at Harlequin!
You may wonder how a sighted person can honestly play someone who has lost their vision. To their credit, Harlequin hired theatre special consultant, Chandra Scheschy, who is visually impaired herself to assist in this production. Audience members will be able to see a conversation between Scheschy and Harvester in their program notes.
One of the things that made Harvester's performance so remarkable was that she tapped into all of her other senses so authentically. When you attend the show, really pay attention to Harvester’s movements and reactions to other actors. Each movement will give you an insight into Susan‘s consciousness, and just how clever, attentive and detail oriented she is. I cannot give away an example without revealing a plot line, but do take my advice in earnest.
Starting the season on the right note
"Wait Until Dark" is the kickstarter to this 2026 “Home/Land” season. Previously described here, this season is all about celebrating what actually makes America great: our collective diverse stories and contributions.
As a member of the chronically ill community, it makes me feel seen and validated to see a show like this start this season because of its core message. Sure, the show has thrills and suspenseful moments, but really it is about someone who has been told one narrative about their blindness, replacing it with a better one.
Susan is not blind, rather someone who is unable to see. She has a limitation, but it should not define her. Throughout the show, this limitation actually becomes a blessing as she turns into her other senses and embraces her own strengths. It is stunning to watch.
That is a message for everybody: it’s not about what we cannot do, but what we can. That encourages me to change the way I describe people and maybe even myself at times, and I hope it encourages you too.
This is why we need to continue to attend the arts and learn lessons like these in the audience.
Learn more about the show here.
https://www.thejoltnews.com/stories/review-wait-until-dark-by-harlequin-productions,27969