Ghost Stories – Liverpool Playhouse

Prepare for an unparalleled theatrical experience. Running until March 15^th Ghost Stories is an extraordinary production brimming with moments of shock, suspense, and psychological tension that will deeply unsettle even the most fearless theatre goers. This chilling performance is strictly unsuitable for individuals under 15 years of age. Those sensitive to disturbing or anxiety-inducing experiences should carefully heed this warning before securing their tickets. Brace yourself; spine-tingling thrills await!

After captivating audiences worldwide with record-breaking, sold-out performances and an acclaimed film adaptation, Andy Nyman and Jeremy Dyson’s Ghost Stories stands as a landmark achievement in horror theatre. Lauded by the Sunday Times as “genuinely scary fun,” this masterfully crafted production intertwines gripping suspense with compelling storytelling, creating an immersive experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

At the heart of this enthralling narrative is Professor Goodman, a staunch sceptic devoted to unravelling the mysteries of the unknown. His riveting journey leads him to investigate three extraordinary hauntings.

The stories feature:

– A dedicated night watchman recounting chilling events that unfolded in an eerie, abandoned building.

– A timidly courageous teenage boy confronts his deepest fears of the supernatural.

– A successful businessman, filled with anticipation for impending fatherhood, grapples with unsettling disturbances in his home.

. The cast features the exceptional talents of Dan Tetsell as Professor Goodman, David Cardy as Tony Matthews, Eddie Loodmer-Elliott as Simon Rifkind, and Clive Mantle as Mike Priddle. Each actor brings a unique narrative to life, whisking us back in time to relive these haunting events and witness first-hand the terror that unfolds. As each story leaves behind lingering questions, fear takes the opportunity to splinter through the theatre.

Prepare for drama, tension, unexpected twists and hair-raising screams. This gripping play has no interval, ensuring the tension remains unbroken and leaving you entranced, uncertain of how much time has passed.

Dan Tetsell masterfully guides us into the unknown as Professor Goodman. With a dry, dark, and cynical demeanour, he engages us with a captivating lecture designed to relax our minds into a trance-like state, priming us for the shocks that lie ahead. The information he presents is so fascinating that it could easily stand alone as a play. With his authoritative presence, he expertly patronizes any believers, displaying his perceived superior knowledge with a smug smile. This portrayal is so authentic that you might find yourself questioning whether he is truly a professor or merely an actor. Professor Goodman is a uniquely entertaining character who skilfully ushers us into the unexpected. The role of the professor appears to be quite academic and insightful at first glance; or is it really ???

David Cardy takes the stage first as cockney night watchman Tony, delivering an exceptional performance. His portrayal is so believable that it feels as if we are witnessing a real night watchman recounting a true story. He conveys a thousand thoughts and emotions without uttering a word, effectively drawing us into his captivating tale.

Eddie Loodmer-Elliott allows us to breathe a little easier as the awkward teenager Simon, even managing to spark laughter with his relatable frustrations. He embodies his character beautifully, complete with clumsy, awkward laughter that erupts at just the wrong moments. But be warned: there’s a steep price for relaxing in a show like Ghost Stories.

Clive Mantle brings to life the pompous businessman Mike, whose self-absorption blinds him to everything except closing the next deal. His performance takes us on an emotional journey as he reveals deeper layers to his character, showcasing a heart and depth that defy his brash exterior.

The sets are ingeniously designed by Jon Bausor and glide seamlessly on and off stage to transport us between various locations while maintaining an unbroken atmosphere of dread. Lighting by James Francombe, sound by Nick Manning and special effects by Scott Penrose all help to make this the most spine tingling, terrifying experience in modern theatre today.

Reviewer: Kevin Eccleston

Reviewed: 11th March 2025

North West End UK Rating: