Ghost Stories ★★★ Sadler's Wells Peacock Theatre | Sep 30 - Nov 8, 2025


Ghost Stories comprises three tales of supernatural encounters, framed by an academic’s sceptical perspective. Writers Jeremy Dyson and Andy Nyman have crafted a clever script that keeps the audience engaged and unsettled as a night watchman, a student, and a new father recount their chilling experiences. In today’s highly technical age, the production’s reliance on light and sound effects to create the moments of horror may appear somewhat simplistic. Nevertheless, these evocations of confrontations with the spirit world still elicit the intended gasps and nervous laughter. Indeed, a strong cast does an excellent job of drawing us into their unsettling realities. Jonathan Guy Lewis strikes just the right note as the slightly condescending professor who provides a rational counterpoint to the three narratives, while David Cardy is completely credible as the curmudgeonly warehouse caretaker confronted with an inexplicable phenomenon. Preston Nyman effectively captures the terror of being stranded on a dark road, and Clive Mantle is entirely convincing as the self-important businessman who receives more than he bargains for. Yet the true strength of the show lies in its unexpected conclusion. The startling twist ending ensures that Ghost Stories is a thoroughly enjoyable peregrination into the paranormal.

Rated: ★★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Hugo Glendinning

When, Where, Getting there:
Map & Location: Portugal St, London WC2A 2HT, UK

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