REVIEW: Ghost The Musical - Liverpool Empire Theatre

Bill Kenwright presents a new production unchained and reimagined: Ghost The Musical. Based on the film written by Bruce Joel Rubin and directed by Bob Tomson, the production runs until 15th April at Liverpool Empire Theatre

I am ashamed to admit that I have never seen the original 1990's movie with Demi Moore and the late Patrick Swayze, so my review is based on no prior knowledge of the movie and only a loose understanding of the story-line.

Andy Moss and Carolyn Maitland - Photo credit Pamela Raith

The musical tells the story of Sam Wheat (Andy Moss) who is a banker and his beloved artist girlfriend Molly Jensen (Carolyn Maitland). The two who are madly in love have their bubble burst when their close friend Carl Bruner (Sam Ferriday) pursues a path of corruption and murders Sam over a dodgy business deal. Sam is then destined to existing in limbo as a powerless spirit. The story-line progresses to show Sam's discovery that he was murdered and betrayed by his friend Carl and his demonstration of love and protection towards his beloved Molly as he inhabits the spirit realm.

Photo credit Matt Martin

From the outset, the quality of the performances were high. The interchangeable set design was impressive and the vocal ability of the cast was magnificent. Former Hollyoaks star Andy Moss was impeccable throughout. The technical effects were fantastic and the audience truly believed that Sam was a ghost and was in fact powerless. The emotion that was conveyed by the actors was incredible. When Sam gets shot, Carolyn and Andy perform with such passion that you buy into their characters and their plight. I was blown away by how well Andy Moss could sing and he and Carolyn were cast so beautifully together. Their duets were richly delivered with passion, emotion and technical skill. The solos and duets were powerful. I particularly enjoyed Carolyn's solo when she sat alone and wrote in her journey. The delivery was excellent, engaging and totally credible. 

Jacui Dubois - Oda Mae Brown Photo credit Matt Martin

Jacqui Dubois plays spirit medium Oda Mae Brown and she is phenomenal. She is hilarious in her depiction of the medium who channels Sam and conveys messages to the skeptical Molly. Her interaction with Andy Moss and Carolyn Maitland is simply brilliant.

Jacqui Dubois -Oda Mae Brown Photo credit Matt Martin

This was a stunning piece of musical theatre. Expect to go on a roller coaster journey of emotions. I laughed and I cried. This is a magnificent show and if I could have, I would have watched it daily during it's stint at The Empire. I recommend this so highly. It is fantastic. The whole cast were incredible. Sam Ferriday (Carl) and Leo Sene (Willie) et al were also tremendous. This is undoubtedly going down on record as one of my favourite performances that I have attended and reviewed. Bravo to the production team and cast. It was emotional and highly entertaining. If you wish to watch the show at The Liverpool Empire, you will have to act quickly.

The show runs until Saturday 15th April and you can get your tickets here
PR Rating : Stunning heavenly must-see.

Photo Credit Matt Martin