Based on a true story in 1978, Catherine Tate stars alongside David Threlfall as Peggy Hodgson, a single mother who is desperate to protect her three children from an unknown source that is incomprehensible and deeply disturbing. Written by Paul Unwin, this new, supernatural and paranormal play is based on the first-hand accounts of one of the ghost hunters from the true story in 1978.
The Hodgsons, once a normal family from North London, were subject to the movements of a terrifying poltergeist in the summer of 1977. When furniture and toys began mysteriously moving on their own accord, and the family’s behaviour started changing, the Hodgsons found themselves the subject of supernatural torture for eighteen months, becoming one of the most famous poltergeist events worldwide.
One of the most impressive parts of this show is the set, lighting and sound, highly important for a show of this style. Beginning with a complete blackout and transitioning to a single flickering lamp, the audience’s attention is immediately gripped. The set is well structured and has depth, different levels creating a realistic representation of a 1970s home. The living room and bedroom are the main focus of the house, but the choice to include the kitchen as a background setting adds to the drama and realism.
Though ultimately a drama, the play manages to find elements of comedy as well as more sincere moments. The solemn moments between Tate’s character and Threlfall’s character are particularly moving and add a different layer to the play, somewhat welcome after the action on stage. Their chemistry throughout the performance is well-rehearsed, creating a stimulating storyline. No stranger to comedy, Tate’s humorous one-liners from the opening are expertly delivered and lead the audience into a false sense of security. The anticipation for the tone to change is palpable, and Tate does well with the character of Peggy to spark intrigue of the family’s situation. As the opening few scenes between Tate and the children are more casual, it is difficult to believe from the outset that this is a sinister tale.
The acting in this play from all the cast is immaculate. Grace Molony, who plays teenager Margaret, is believable and does well to encapsulate the terrible teens and using humour to cover up disarray. In a scene where Margaret heads upstairs to blast her music as normal teenagers do, with the contrast of her sister Janet downstairs having a fit on the table as if she were possessed is particularly unnerving to watch, but expertly executed. Ella Schrey-Yeats as Janet expertly shifts between portraying an innocent and vulnerable teenager and a teenager possessed by a demented sprit.
The acting throughout is very real and understated, creating an overall sincere tone for the show, but while the script lends itself to some intriguing and captivating moments, at times the drama and effects felt repetitive and predictable.
The Enfield Haunting is currently playing at the Ambassador’s Theatre until the 2nd March 2024, with tickets and more information to be found at: https://enfieldhauntingplay.com/
Reviewer: Maani Way
Reviewed: 10th January 2023
North West End UK Rating: