★★★★★
The Mayflower, Southampton – until 18 March 2017
Then touring
Guest reviewer: Sarah Miatt
The 1990 film Ghost, starring Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore broke box office records and the romantic drama has become a staple for many girls nights throughout the years. The story of Banker Sam Wheat who is murdered one night walking home with his girlfriend Molly. As a huge fan of the original film I was interested to see how it would translate to the stage.
Although it is a sparse set for a big scale musical, it was very functional. But if it hadn’t been for the, frankly, stunning New York City backdrop, it could almost be described as a little boring. However the backdrop was so beautiful and had so much depth to it that it saved this element of the production. The set changes were all executed by the cast. This can sometimes look odd but in the majority of cases it was incorporated within the choreography of the songs and as such works well. The subway structure was clever and the train itself as a piece of set, very effective.
The technical team did a sterling job in this production. Furthermore it was the lighting that was behind some of the most impressive effects. Particularly effective during the various deaths throughout the show and during the scenes in the subway with the train ghost.
I can safely say that there were no ‘weak links’ in the performances of this show but there were highlights. Carolyn Maitland, as Molly Jensen was stunning. Her performance was heartbreaking and her beautiful relationship with Sam was believable and sweet. Her voice is just gorgeous and she carried all the numbers she was part of. She particularly stood out in her Act One solo ‘With You’ which bought tears to many eyes.
Andy Moss as Sam had quite a task on his hands as he was rarely off stage. He took the audience through a whole range of emotions and did so with ease. He also had some standout singing moments but was particularly strong in the Act One finale. His opposite Sam Ferriday as villain Carl was very believable and also had an impressive voice.
The show was made by Jacqui Dubois as Oda Mae Brown, the fake psychic who suddenly finds she has a real gift. She was hilarious and provided some much-needed comic relief. However Dubois was equally convincing when in the final scenes she and Molly are scared for their lives.
Incredibly well done, the cast of only fifteen in total managed to make this production seem a lot bigger. The choreography incorporated a lot of hip hop and was slick and completely up to date and the orchestra were flawless. I would say that if you are a fan of the film this musical will not disappoint.
