STORYHOUSE, CHESTER UNTIL – SATURDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER 2025
REVIEWED BY MIA BOWEN
4****
The Woman in Black stands out as one of the most haunting and atmospheric theatrical experiences I have ever encountered. From the outset, the production immerses the audience in a world filled with shadows, silence, and suspense, where every creak of the floorboards and flicker of light evokes a profound sense of unease. What makes the play particularly remarkable is its simplicity: with a nearly bare stage, just two actors, and a skilful use of sound and lighting, the production relies heavily on imagination. This minimalist approach intensifies the tension and demonstrates that genuine fear often resides not in grand displays, but in the power of suggestion.
Theatre can spark the imagination in ways that film simply cannot The performances are remarkably precise. The actors skilfully and intensely bear the weight of the entire story, effortlessly switching between roles and drawing us further into the mystery. Their artistry breathes vivid life into Susan Hill’s ghost story, demonstrating that.
From the moment he steps onto the stage, John Mackay as Mr Kipps commands attention with his gravitas and emotional depth. This seasoned actor draws the audience into a tale that has haunted him for years, infusing the role with a profound sense of humanity. His nuanced performance strikes a delicate balance between restraint and moments of raw vulnerability, effectively pulling the audience into his dread-filled recollections. Each pause and every flicker of fear across his face adds layers to the narrative and heightens the suspense.
Opposite him, Daniel Burke as The Actor is utterly magnetic, imbuing a diverse array of characters with remarkable versatility. He transitions seamlessly from light-hearted charm to spine-chilling menace, guiding the audience through the twists of the story with unwavering precision. Burke’s energy and presence elevate even the simplest stage effects, making them feel electrifying and amplifying the tension that steadily builds throughout the evening. The dynamic between Mackay and Burke exemplifies stagecraft at its finest. Their chemistry is palpable, their timing flawless, and together they create an atmosphere thick with unease, making the audience hesitant to breathe. By the climax, the theatre is enveloped in a silence broken only by gasps of shock and awe.
The sound design by Sebastian Frost and the lighting by Kevin Sleep deserve commendation. A sudden creak, a moment of silence, or a quick shadow darting across the stage can be far more chilling than any grand spectacle. The outcome is a production that fully engages the audience, drawing you in with suspense one moment and causing you to recoil in fear the next.
Darkly atmospheric, excellently performed, and truly haunting, The Woman in Black is a play that captivates, terrifies, and lingers in your mind long after the curtain has fallen.