Ghost Stories

Sadler's Wells Peacock Theatre

Oozing with paranormal vibes, this is the show to watch this Halloween. The tension will have you on the edge of your seat with fear. Are you daring enough to watch this show?

Do you get a thrill from fear? Then, horror buffs and paranormal lovers, consider this a sign that you must get yourself to Sadler's Wells Peacock theatre this spooky season to catch Ghost Stories. The quality of this show and the way it plays with the idea of safety is interesting. This is some dark stage magic. You find yourself sitting in your seat, trying to remind your mind that it isn't real, it's theatre, but it feels so real. This review isn't to pre-warn you or give you any spoilers; it's best to go into this show with a fresh, open mind that's ready to be tricked. It's a treat indeed. You'll be scared as though it's just you in the theatre; the comfort of being in an audience soon vanishes.

Four big names deserve big appreciation: Jon Bausor for set and costume, James Farncombe for Lighting, Nick Manning for sound and Scott Penrose for special effects. These four elements are put together to make the paranormal environment you are immersed in. No, you're not physically a part of the show, but you feel like you are inside the story and experiencing it. Left in fear of what is to come, and the tension built by the visuals and sound is inexplicable, just fantastic. Reminding you of that one question 'What is real?'. It's hard to explain how a show can be so scary without truly experiencing it. As I left the theatre and told my parents about how scared I was throughout the show, my dad asked 'How can a show be so scary?'. Well, these four elements work well, not showing their secrets and the actor's reaction to what happens.

There are moments when the actors are performing where you wonder if they are still acting. Is everything what it seems? Johnathon Guy Lewis plays the Professor, and he builds this bond with the audience. He acts like the one who knows where the piece is about to go, like he controls the story and tells it. His acting is brilliant. There's something about how he addresses the audience that feels personal to you, like he is just speaking to you and you're alone in the theatre. A great element to creating this spooky environment. There are moments of comedy from the cast to give the audience relief or maybe even to trick them into a sense of comfort. You never know what's to come, and you may judge those around you for screaming, but at some point in the piece, at least once, you'll be next to scream or jump.

Don't worry, I've not given anything away. There's so much for you to explore, and this story is one for you to find out. If you are curious and want to challenge your mind in this game of fear, then be my guest. It's no surprise this show has been going on for the last 3 years; it's attracted the thrill seekers. Want to see some real spooky theatre this Halloween? Then, don't miss out. Want to know how theatre can be scary? That's not for me to tell you, or I guess WARN YOU, you have to find out for yourself. It's spine-tingling and simply ghoulishly brilliant.