If you’re on the lookout for a theatrical experience that combines heartfelt emotion with a dash of humour, then “Ghost the Musical” at the New Wimbledon Theatre is a must-see. Based on the beloved film of the same name, this production invites audiences to immerse themselves in a world where love transcends the boundaries of life and death. With such high stakes involved, it’s clear that a great deal of detail has gone into producing this show, as audiences come in with particular expectations of how the intricate ghostly elements and the leads should come to life on stage. One of the pressing questions in everyone’s mind is whether the stage Sam will do justice to the iconic rendition of ‘Unchained Melody’, originally performed by Patrick Swayze. Spoiler alert: he absolutely does!

Under the slick and dynamic direction of Bob Tomson, the show is a compelling blend of laughter and tears. The pacing leaves you breathless as one minute you’re doubled over with laughter, and the next your heartstrings are being tugged mercilessly. Tomson has done a marvellous job of crafting a narrative that ebbs and flows seamlessly, ensuring that the audience remains engaged throughout. The choreography by Alistar David is simple yet effective, executed with such tightness that it is evident dance captain Molly Cleese has the cast thoroughly drilled; every movement feels purposeful and enhances the overall storytelling.

Adding to the show’s brilliance are Richard Pinner’s masterful illusions. The way the magical elements are recreated on stage is nothing short of spectacular. I found myself marveling at the effortless transitions that brought the supernatural to life, particularly in the pivotal scene surrounding Carl’s death. While I was well aware of what was to come, the execution was so beautifully handled that it left a lasting impact on the audience; honestly, you could have heard a pin drop in the theatre during that moment.

The lighting design greatly enhanced the ghostly atmosphere, creating an otherworldly environment that enveloped the audience in the unfolding drama. It played a significant role in adding layers to the narrative, effectively highlighting key moments and characters. However, there were instances where the sound design detracted from the overall experience. At times, the sound levels seemed off, leaving the audience straining to hear dialogue accurately. The balance between the band and the actors’ voices also felt misaligned, resulting in missed phrases and muddled lines. Additionally, there were occurrences where microphones were not up in time for several dialogue lines, which diminished the slick flow expected in a production of this calibre.

Rebekah Lowings as Molly and Josh St Clair as Sam deliver performances that are both believable and touching. Their onstage chemistry is palpable, and they expertly navigate the complexities of their tragically beautiful love story. Lowings’ voice is simply exquisite; it flows effortlessly throughout the performance, imbued with a raw emotional quality that allows for purposeful dynamic shifts. Each note she sang resonated deeply, particularly during the climactic moments of the story, special mention for ‘With You’, BRAVO!

On the other hand, St Clair brings a charm to Sam that echoes the qualities we fell in love with in the film. His portrayal of a devoted partner grappling with the realities of his death is profoundly moving, and he successfully embodies both the light-hearted and the gravely serious elements of his character. Together, they truly take the audience on an emotional rollercoaster that’s hard to forget.

Then there’s Jacqui Dubois as Oda Mae Brown. My word, this woman is sheer comedy from the moment she steps onto the stage! Channeling the essence of Whoopi Goldberg while infusing her own unique flavour into the role, Dubois has an undeniable stage presence. Her comedic timing is impeccable, and the bank scene is easily the highlight of the evening for me. The entire theatre was filled with infectious laughter, demonstrating that the balance of humour amidst the darker themes of the show is handled with finesse.

“Ghost the Musical” manages to strike a beautiful balance between the power of love and the sorrow of loss, all while offering moments of levity that remind us to cherish the joy of life. Every element, from the direction to the performances, comes together to create a production that is not only visually stunning but emotionally resonant as well.

Ultimately, if you’re in search of a night at the theatre that will leave you laughing, crying, and, most importantly, reflecting on the beauty of love—“Ghost the Musical” at the New Wimbledon Theatre is an experience you genuinely cannot afford to miss. So gather your friends, prepare for an emotional ride, and get ready to fall in love all over again with this fantastic adaptation!

Review by Laura Whittingham

Ghost is on at New Wimbledon until 8th February and the tour then continues. You can find out more on their website.

If you like this review you might also like my review of & Juliet, Bat Out of Hell and Back to the Future.