THERE’S definitely something about a ghost story that makes it an ideal live experience.
Stephen Mallatratt’s adaptation of Susan Hill’s bestselling novel, The Woman in Black, is certainly such an experience, with the atmosphere cleverly manipulated by directors, lighting designers and, for this production, a very talented Gareth Owen, whose sound builds the tension slowly to a crescendo of screams.
The storyline is pretty simple.
A lawyer obsessed with a curse that he believes has been cast over him and his family by the ghostly figure of a woman in black, engages a sceptical young actor to help him tell his chilling story in order to exorcise the fear.
Robert Demeger’s commanding performance as Arthur Kipps is a masterclass of comedy timing and, as he works through the other characters, it is difficult to believe that there are only two people in this production.
Peter Bramhill’s enthusiastic portrayal of The Actor is also worthy of note, particularly as he pushes the action.
The film noir style of this production kept my heart in my mouth the whole evening.
■ Until Saturday. Box office 013325-486555
Aitch Brown
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