The Woman in Black

“Thrilling, intense and a little bit creepy”.

Following a 30-year residency at the Fortune Theatre in the West End, making it London’s second longest running play, The Woman in Black is embarking on a UK & Ireland Tour bringing chills down the spines of audience members across the country.  Starting its reign of terror at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, this show is thrilling, intense and a little bit creepy!

"The Woman in Black" is a chilling and suspenseful novel by Susan Hill, first published in 1983. The story is set in early 20th-century England and revolves around Arthur Kipps (no, not the Flash, Bang, Wallop one!), a young solicitor sent to a remote and desolate town to settle the estate of the deceased Alice Drablow. As Arthur arrives in the town, he quickly realises that the locals are reluctant to talk about Mrs. Drablow and her former residence, which is situated on a marshy island only accessible at low tide.

Undeterred by the eerie atmosphere and the ominous warnings from the townspeople, Arthur sets out to complete his work. During his stay he encounters disturbing and supernatural events, including sightings of a mysterious woman dressed in black, often accompanied by the sounds of a child's cries. Arthur becomes increasingly unnerved as he delves deeper into the dark secrets of the Drablow family and the tragic history of the residence.

This play is masterfully acted by Malcolm James (Arthur Kipps) and Mark Hawkins (The Actor), the only two performers for the duration of the play.  It is no mean feat to keep an audience gripped with such a small cast, however James and Hawkins perfectly orchestrated this spooky story, with no beat missed and the intensity as strong from start to finish.  Lighting Designer Kevin Sleep was able to provide the right amount of suspense with the use of spotlights, warm lighting, together with crackling flashes of light for the many ‘jumpy’ moments.  Safe to say, if you’re of a nervous disposition, this show may not be for you, with plenty of moments that have you shifting in your seat.

"The Woman in Black" is a classic ghost story that explores themes of grief, guilt, and the supernatural. Susan Hill's masterful storytelling creates a sense of dread and unease, making it a spine-tingling and unforgettable tale of horror and by the end, you realise that the terror lives on........but no spoilers here!

If you seek a tale that will send shivers down your spine and leave you pondering the mysteries of the supernatural, "The Woman in Black" is a must-see that will not disappoint.

This show was reviewed on the 6th September 2023.  “The Woman in Black” runs at the Wolverhampton Grand until the 9th September 2023.  Tickets available here: THE WOMAN IN BLACK | Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

Full tour details can be found here: The Woman in Black - Tour

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Photo credit: Mark Douet

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