THE LODGER

By Susie Moloney & Vern Thiessen

Based on the novel by Marie Belloc Lowndes and inspired by Alfred Hitchcock’s 1927 film

Beware who you invite into your home.

Bill and Ellen Bunting are struggling to make ends meet when a mysterious lodger appears to be the answer to their financial troubles. However, the timing of the lodger’s arrival is eerily suspicious when a series of murders indicate a serial killer is on the loose. As Bill becomes a suspect in the eyes of policewoman Joannie, Ellen’s best friend, Ellen begins to look closer at the stranger living under her roof. Can Ellen get to the truth before more young women fall victim, and what will she do once she finds out who the killer truly is?

Inspired by Alfred Hitchcock’s famous silent thriller of the same name, renowned Canadian novelist Susie Moloney and award-winning playwright Vern Thiessen reanimate this classic suspense into a modern and stunning world premiere.

Why This Play?

“THE LODGER is both a familiar and unfamiliar piece, drawing in audiences with its suspenseful storytelling, tension, and pace. I love high-octane pieces that let us see what’s coming, yet still surprise us. THE LODGER is a thrilling Hitchcock tale from the master himself, adapted by two of Canada’s most renowned writers. ”

— Jack Grinhaus, Artistic Director

VIew Digital Playbill

RUNNING TIME

2 Hours and 20 Minutes (Including Intermission)

AUDIENCE ADVISORIES

Performances of THE LODGER contain scenes with explicit language and scenes of violence and murder against women. For a comprehensive list of audience advisories, please visit our audience advisory page.

TIME & SETTING

A run-down two-story house in a small working-class city. 1973

THE CAST

ELLEN BUNTING

Lauren Brotman

BILL BUNTING

David Haysom

LAURENCE MOORE

Tyrell Crews

Joannie Buffie

Norma Lewis

DAISY BUNTING

Grace Fedorchuk

September 26 - October 25, 2026