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 27th April at Liverpool Empire Theatre

It’s the second time that I have watched Ghost The Musical on stage: a story full of hope captivates the audience whilst tugging on their heart strings. The score by Dave Stewart and Glenn Ballad is a beautiful mix and a sight to behold. That with a mesmerising set and talented cast, the show made an enjoyable and emotional night at the theatre.

The musical tells the story of Sam Wheat (Niall Sheehy) who is a banker and his beloved artist girlfriend Molly Jensen (Rebekah Lowings). The two who are madly in love have their bubble burst when their close friend Carl Bruner (Sergio Pasquariello) 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.

 It's a story of loss, love, danger, fraud and psychic abilities.

 

From the outset, the quality of the performances was high. The interchangeable set design was impressive and the vocal ability of the cast was magnificent.  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, Rebekah and Niall perform with such passion that you buy into their characters and their plight. The solos and duets were powerful. I particularly enjoyed Rebekah’s solo when she sat alone and pondered on the loss of Sam.

 

Jacqui Dubois returns and plays spirit medium Oda Mae Brown as she did when I first saw the mjusical 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 the protagonists is simply brilliant.

This was a fabulous piece of musical theatre. Expect to go on a roller coaster journey of emotions. The audience laughed and cried, some were clearly overcome with emotion (which was slightly disconcerting). This is a highly engaging show and one worth watching. I recommend this highly. The whole cast were incredible. Sergio Pasquariello (Carl) and Jules Brown (Willie) et al were also tremendous. A special mention to Lovonne Richard who played the powerful and mesmerising subway ghost. 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 27th April and you can get your tickets Here

PR Rating : Stunningly other-wordly unchained melody- a must-see.