Based on the 1990s film starring Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore, and Whoopi Goldberg, Ghost the Musical follows the tragic story of Sam, who is murdered while walking home with his girlfriend, Molly. Trapped in purgatory, Sam desperately tries to warn Molly that she’s in danger, using the reluctant of psychic Oda Mae Brown. But will Molly believe Oda Mae’s warnings?
One of the production’s strengths is its script, written by the original screenwriter, Bruce Joel Rubin, which remains faithful to the film’s storyline. Fans of the movie won’t be disappointed by this narrative-driven adaptation. Personally, I hadn’t seen the film and went in with only a vague reference to the iconic pottery wheel scene and that famous song. I’d been told I might find the story a bit cheesy, but instead, I found incredibly moving. Judging by the chorus of sniffles around the auditorium, I wasn’t alone in that sentiment.
Rebekah Lowings was stunning as Molly, portraying her grief with heart-breaking authenticity and a beautiful vocal performance. James Mateo-Salt was excellent as Sam, showcasing impressive physicality, especially in his gripping scenes with the terrifying ‘Subway Ghost’, played by Garry Lee. Jacqui Dubois brought much-needed comic relief as the eccentric Oda Mae Brown, and Jamie Pritchard effectively captured Carl Brunner’s ambition and manipulation.
If I had to describe this production in one word, it would be fast-paced. This momentum extended to the swift scene transitions in Mark Bailey’s cleverly designed set, enhanced by Richard Pinner’s inventive illusions that seamlessly created ghostly effects. Director Bob Tomson did a brilliant job of capturing the essence of the classic film, while ensuring the musical stood out as a triumph in its own right. Judging by the standing ovation at the end, I wasn’t the only one who thought so.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3*)
Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | photography by Alistair Muir
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