Review: Ghost The Musical, Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton
Wolverhampton's Grand Theatre is reputed to have several ghosts of its own - but as the West End hit Ghost the Musical makes its Midlands debut over the next fortnight, there really is nothing to be scared of.
For this show is simply out of this world.
The film version, starring Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore, caused quite a stir back in 1990 with its provocative potter's wheel scene.
That aside, it is simply the heart-wrenching tale of lovers Molly and Sam, parted by his untimely death when he is brutally attacked in a street crime, or so it seems...as trapped between this world and the next, Sam struggles to return to avenge his demise and keep Molly safe from harm.
Solihull-born and bred, Stewart Clarke is every inch the handsome hero on stage, with strong vocals and acting skills to match, at times reducing his audience to tears with his emotional performance. Rebecca Trehearn compliments him perfectly as Molly and her beautiful rendition of the haunting ballad, With You, surely must be one of the highlights of the show.
There is a much needed lift to the sad proceedings with an hysterical comedy performance by Wendy Mae Brown as the outrageous psychic, Oda Mae Brown (yes that really is her own name). She is ably supported by a strong cast of young performers, including local lass, Kimmy Edwards from Telford, who play various small characters.
The technical wizardry created by cutting-edge technology and futuristic theatrical effects, thanks to an amazing backstage team, is almost overwhelming and yet is exactly what sets this show apart from any other you will have seen at the Grand Theatre before.
There is so much going on all at once, that at times it is hard to know what to look at first, but there is no doubt it is spectacular and in parts, completely astonishing.
Ladies, have your tissues at the ready for the final scenes, as the story builds to a wonderfully emotional climax.
The show runs until June 15. Call 01902 429212 for tickets.
Alison Norton
