Looking for fun things to do with the kids?
Explore our kid-friendly directory
Rebecca (MTC) Review: A haunting stage adaptation of Daphne du Maurier’s classic novel
Melbourne Theatre Company (MTC) presents a new adaptation of Rebecca, adapted and directed by Artistic Director Anne-Louise Sarks. This stunning reimagining of Daphne du Maurier’s timeless gothic tale is now showing at Southbank Theatre until 5 November 2025
Advertisement
The Story
A young woman falls in love with the mysterious widower Maxim de Winter (Stephen Phillips) and soon finds herself living at his grand estate, Manderley. What begins as a romantic escape turns into something darker, as the lingering presence of Maxim’s late wife, Rebecca, begins to haunt her new life.
Within Manderley’s imposing walls, the housekeeper Mrs Danvers (Pamela Rabe) remains devoted to Rebecca’s memory, determined to keep her spirit alive — and to torment the new Mrs de Winter (Nikki Shiels) at every turn.
The Performances
Nikki Shiels gives a beautifully layered performance as the unnamed Mrs de Winter, portraying innocence, unease and growing strength with quiet precision. Stephen Phillips captures Maxim de Winter’s complexity — torn between love, guilt and restraint.
Pamela Rabe is extraordinary as Mrs Danvers, embodying loyalty, grief and cruelty in equal measure. Rabe also takes on the roles of Mrs Van Hopper and Beatrice, shifting seamlessly between characters. Toby Truslove delivers strong performances as both Frank Crawley and Jack Favell, balancing empathy with charisma.
Advertisement
The Production Design
Marg Horwell’s set design evolves with the story, reflecting the growing tension within Manderley. The mirrored ceiling, creeping vines, and shifting walls create an atmosphere that feels both haunting and dreamlike.
Lighting by Paul Jackson and sound design by Joe Paradise Lui and Grace Ferguson build the gothic mood with the use of shadow, haze and sound.
A Theatrical Experience Worth Seeing
Anne-Louise Sarks’ direction brings the slow-burning suspense of the original novel to life with a fresh theatrical approach. The production feels both intimate and cinematic, drawing audiences into the mysterious world of Manderley.
Rebecca is a beautifully staged psychological play that explores love, jealousy and obsession with depth and artistry. It’s an unmissable experience for theatre lovers who appreciate classic stories reimagined with modern creativity.
Important details
Dates: Until 5 November 2025
Venue: Southbank Theatre, Melbourne
Running time: 1 hour 45 minutes (no interval)
Recommended for: Ages 15+ (contains mature themes, theatrical smoke, haze and sound effects)
Tickets: Available via Melbourne Theatre Company
Advertisement
Recent Posts
- Disney On Ice Presents Magic in the Stars Review – Melbourne 2026
- Losing Face Review: Melbourne Theatre Company’s Hilarious New Comedy
- Best Libraries in Melbourne CBD for Families: Free Things to Do with Kids
- Winter School Holidays Melbourne 2026 Guide
- Lightscape Melbourne: A Magical Winter Light Experience at the Royal Botanic Gardens
- Winter Wonderlights Sovereign Hill Guide: Tickets, Dates & Experiences
- Review: Retrograde, Melbourne Theatre Company
- FROSTED – A Winter Spectacular Melbourne 2026
- Melbourne Design Week: Family-Friendly Events & Activities for Kids in Melbourne
- RISING 2026 Melbourne: Family Friendly Events at Melbourne’s Winter Festival
We try our best to provide accurate information on kid-friendly events around Victoria but do recommend parents check details directly to confirm dates, times, prices as some details may be subject to change.
