Grand Theatre, Leeds – until Saturday 4th May 2019
Reviewed by Aimee Liddington
4****
Based on the novel by Peter James, The House on Cold Hill tells the story of a family who move into their ‘forever home’ but soon find out it was never really theirs to begin with.
Ollie Harcourt, played by Joe McFadden, and his family move into an old mansion that has been vacant for many years. Initially shrugging off the rumours of the locals, who seem to know an unusual amount about the history of the house, Ollie and his family eventually start to question the strange happenings in their dream home.
Novelist, Peter James and Stage Adaptor, Shaun McKenna have worked together to create a supernatural thriller that is peppered with humour. Ghost stories have existed since ancient times but The House on Cold Hill seems to shift the genre into the present day. The use of modern technology such as WiFi, FaceTime and even an Amazon ‘Echo’ has the audience both simultaneously charmed and spooked. Whether or not you are a believer in the supernatural, the play allows us to not only question the existence or mere definition of a ghost, but also to examine and question how technology has changed the world we live in.
If you are attracted by a cast list full of credible, well-known actors, then The House on Cold Hill is perfect for you. The two main characters, Ollie and Caro Harcourt, are played by Joe McFadden and Rita Simons who between them boast an impressive résumé of TV and film roles. Their acting experience is apparent through their seamless delivery of lines and easy movement on the stage. Nevertheless, I believe that the intrigue of the story line is largely enhanced by the introduction of the character Annie, played by Tricia Deighton. Bringing comedy and emotion to the audience, Deighton portrays everyone’s stereotypical idea of a hippie, psychic medium with great authenticity.
While one could say that the story took longer than expected to peak, by the interval I was left hanging in suspense, hungry for more. Through unexpected sounds and tricks and turns of light, the audience is transported to a world between this one and the next where anything is possible. Credit is due to the creative team, in particular Jason Taylor, Martin Hodgson and Nina Dunn who make up the lighting, sound and video and projection designers. The haunting experience would not be so poignant without their contributions.
Thoughtfully produced and directed and expertly performed, The House on Cold Hill is more than worth a watch.