Festival Theatre, Malvern – until 27th September 2025
Reviewed by Courie Amado Juneau
5*****
2:22 A Ghost Story has been doing roaring trade in the West End and around the world. I kept missing it, so it was with high expectations that I was finally getting to see it tonight – especially with a rather interesting cast.
The story revolves around Jenny and Sam (her husband) hosting a dinner party for their friends. The invitation has an ulterior motive though; Jenny believes the house is haunted and wants all there to stay until the ghost reappears at his usual time (you guessed it – the 2:22 of the title). This revelation sparks a rather lively discussion (as you can imagine) and opinions, which tests the atmosphere somewhat…
The awesome domestic set – living room, dining area, kitchen etc – courtesy of set designer Anna Fleischle – cleverly set the scene for not only the house but also the occupants (think well to do, successful go-getters). It looked sturdy too – which was just as well as it took a beating at times. The set was decorated with the usual domestic accoutrements, leaving many dark corners for the ever present shadows to inhabit. The digital clocks were another key feature which would play a prominent role in the ensuing drama and ramp up the tension
The small but perfectly formed cast was headed up by married couple Stacey Dooley (Jenny) and Kevin Clifton (Sam). I’ll be honest, I had no idea either one could act! Present documentaries and dance, yes – but act…? Well, let me tell you, they sure can! Both actors had a lovely, naturalistic style which was very believable. They also handled comedy, tragedy, fear, suspense etc with an assuredness that would make one believe they were seasoned professionals. I could quite happily watch them in any and every production and can’t wait to see them in their next on stage endeavour!
The story unfolded in logical fashion, as you would expect at such a gathering, and the human drama ensued was just as interesting as the actual ghost story. This was very cleverly scripted and plotted. I found myself genuinely engrossed in the back stories and this was in no small part the result of fine acting from the supporting cast Lauren (Shvorne Marks), Sam’s longstanding friend and her boyfriend Ben (played by Grant Kilburn). A thoroughly modern couple who I warmed to thanks to these exceptional actors thespianic efforts. There’s also plenty in the story to spark debates in the audience about the nature of ghosts and strange events in general – as befitting the playwright’s television output such as Uncanny.
All the best horror tales have a rich seam of tongue in cheek, if not outright humour, and this play is no exception. And it’s all the better for it. But be warned – it’s jumpy. Though I guess that’s to be expected given the title of the play.
There was a genuinely fabulous twist in the tale – but my lips are sealed! And it’s such a good twist I don’t wanna give the game away. I’d love to see it again and highly encourage you to see it also. Five stars really doesn’t do it justice. All in all, this ghost story is a scream!