The Wasp
by Morgan Lloyd Malcolm
Directed by Robert Ashton
Albion Theatre
June 12, 2026
Macia Noorman, Ricki Franklin
Photo by John Lamb
Albion Theatre
The Wasp is a freaky play. A St. Louis premiere presented at Albion Theatre, British playwright Morgan Lloyd Malcolm’s two-hander is a fast-moving psychological thriller that contains some truly disturbing subject matter, so let that be a warning. It’s not for all audiences, but it’s also an expertly crafted script that keeps audiences guessing from start to finish. Under the thoughtful and meticulous direction of Robert Ashton, it also serves as a showcase for two positively fantastic performances from excellent local actors.
This play isn’t easy to describe without spoiling too much, since so much of the plot evolves in unexpected ways, but the set-up is that two old schoolmates, the affluent Heather (Ricki Fraklin) and the financially struggling Carla (Macia Noorman), meet in a cafe after years of estrangement to discuss a shocking proposal that Heather has for Carla. Although Carla is reluctant at first, she eventually goes along, and that decision starts a chain of events and revelations that tell us much more than we initially thought we knew about these two and their relationship over the years. There’s a good deal of psychological manipulation and not a few twists and turns as the plot develops. It’s not easy to watch considering some of the subject matter, including graphic descriptions of violence toward both humans and animals, as well as sexual manipulation and bullying.
The script is very well put together, and the acting is stellar, with both Noorman and Franklin turning in tour-de-force performances and displaying fantastic, suspenseful chemistry. Noorman’s tough-talking Carla and Franklin’s more initially reserved Heather both have their surprises, and both performers handle the emotion, tension, and determination with expert energy and emotion. It’s a convincing turn from both, making for a rivetingly suspenseful production throughout. The pacing is also expertly measured, making for a fast-moving show with never a dull moment.
Visually, this is one of the more impressive shows I’ve seen in this venue. Rob Lippert’s well-appointed set is detailed and meticulous, especially adept at presenting Heather’s richly furnished high-end residence. There’s also excellent work from lighting designer Kara Grimm-Denholm, helping to maintain the overall suspenseful tone throughout the story, along with the also excellent sound by Leonard Marshell. Tracey Newcomb’s costumes are also notably appropriate to the characters., and there’s memorable work from fight choreographer Mo Moellering, as well.
If you’re into psychological thrillers, The Wasp is likely to appeal. It’s a bit much for me in terms of subject matter, but I’m squeamish about these kinds of things. There’s no question that it’s a well-crafted script with powerful acting, and especially clever and thoughtful direction. It’s another example of theatrical excellence from Albion Theatre Company.
Macia Noorman, Ricki Franklin
Photo by John Lamb
Albion Theatre
Albion Theatre is presenting The Wasp at the Kranzberg Arts Center until June 28, 2026