The Woman in Black

If a friend suggests you go to a play where the plot is a well-kept secret, it’s probably best if you include a warning that there may be sudden shocks in the ghost story. I suspect that still wouldn’t have prevented my companion from nearly jumping out of her seat at one (wonderfully produced) shock!

The Woman in Black is a mysterious ghost story that revels in its twisting narrative, and it is brought to life magnificently by John Waters and Daniel MacPherson. John Waters plays Arthur Kipps, a lawyer who is obsessed about a curse that he is sure has been placed upon him. Daniel MacPherson plays The Actor, who is sceptical about Kipps’ story but becomes involved in the telling of Kipps’ life. Both actors show their flexibility and ability to become different characters as the eerie story comes to life.

Discrete micing allows the actors’ voices (so full of character) to be heard clearly throughout the theatre, especially when mixed with a sound and lighting design that fills the theatre and the senses. Kudos to Kevin Sleep, lighting designer, and Sebastian Frost, sound designer (original sound design by Rod Mead). The Australian sound and lighting experts are Ali Smith, Travis Macfarlane and Marcello Lo Ricco.

The design by Michael Holt transports the audience to a deserted theatre, and through clever use of minimal props in conjunction with sound and lighting, the actors lead us into thoroughly different situations. Costume supervisor Maddi Dailey has various items which allow John Waters and Daniel MacPherson to change before our eyes.

For those who like a mystery, this was a fantastic night’s entertainment, being led through a winding story by two seasoned actors who give their all in the service of the play. The jump scares are just an added extra.

Rachel McGrath-Kerr

Photographer: Justin Nicholas