Ghost the Musical: Haunting

'Ghost' exceeded any expectations I might have had.  I wasn't consciously aware of many preconceptions but was very positively surprised by the superb performances and breathtaking special effects.  They have stuck close to the storyline of the 1990 film and the romantic fantasy is beautifully enacted live on stage. 

Whilst the actors who play Sam and Molly, whose love story is cruelly interrupted, are very good, it is Sharon D. Clarke who stole the show, for me.  Her character, Oda Mae Brown, is that which Whoopi Goldberg occupied in the film - as the comic New York psychic, from Spanish Harlem, who is surprised to discover her 'gift' having been professing to connect with those who have 'passed' for some time before Sam approaches her boudoir.

Oda Mae almost makes it: whilst she doesn't get to keep the $10,000,000 she does put her rates up for readings. 
She does however dream in style.

The set, projections, and effects are truly inspired, and succeeded in transporting us direct to the madness of Manhattan. 

The lighting and choreography set the scene for what was, I thought, a very slick show that will, I think, run and run... 

So far, the new show has received mixed reviews.  I'd invite you to go and form your own opinion.  It certainly has a different feel to the film, but there's something electric and soulful in this stage production.