WHAT’S IT ABOUT?
A tale of love and loss, based on the award-winning 1990 film, starring Demi Moore (in what we think is still her stand-out role) and the eternal dreamboat that is Patrick Swayze. The movie tugged at heartstrings across the globe and went on to enjoy worldwide success, raking in over $5 million at the box office and catapulting Moore and Swayze to stardom (Moore went on to become the highest-paid actress in the world). To this day, Ghost is still one of the highest-grossing films of all time and its incarnation from silver screen smash hit to sell-out stage show is a thrilling leap indeed.
WHO’S IN IT?
Rebekah Lowings takes to the stage (and does a great job) as widow Molly, while Niall Sheehy steps into Swayze’s shoes as male lead, Sam. Jacqui Dubois brings life to Whoopi Goldberg’s Oscar-winning character, Oda Mae Brown, and Sergio Pasquariello plays best friend-turned-bad-guy, Carl.
WHAT’S GOOD ABOUT IT?
The fact that it manages to breathe new life into the story fans all know and love, while managing to honour the film and leave its most memorable moments untouched. Yes there are, of course, new numbers and fun tweaks and twists here and there, but that aside they haven’t messed about with the storyline – it’s all still there (including a lot of the original dialogue) to enjoy – things like the iconic pottery wheel scene, the unmistakable, almost haunting, sound of Unchained Melody oozing from the record player, the humour and unlikely bond between Sam and Oda Mae and the satisfying (and somewhat chilling) scene in which Carl finally gets his comeuppance and gets gobbled up by the devil’s little helpers.
Putting the slightly dodgy American accents aside, both Lowings and Sheehy take to the parts well – the chemistry between the two appears authentic and their singing is top-drawer – but it is, in our opinion, Dubois who really steals the show. She captures the true essence of Whoopi Goldberg’s character superbly; everything from the accent and tone of voice, to the mannerisms and animated facial expressions. No surprises, then, that she had the entire theatre erupting with laughter during our visit and received a standing ovation from some. You need a little comic relief with this one – and she gives it you in spades. Oh, and the ending is absolutely gorgeous, too. Beautifully done. Prepare for goosebumps and maybe even a few tears.
WHO SHOULD SEE IT?
Anyone who loves the movie. Die-hard fans shouldn’t leave disappointed – it’s a great tribute to the film. We heard lots of people say that it made them want to dig out the DVD and indulge in a bit of Swayze time when they got home (never a bad thing in our book). And if you’re not familiar with the film, go anyway. If nothing else, it’ll have you feeling all mushy inside – and that’s always nice, isn’t it?
WHEN IS IT ON?
Grab your tickets – it’s on now, but only until March 16. Prices from £13.
