2:22 A Ghost Story At Alhambra Theatre, Bradford, Review

DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW

Reviewed by Alexander Wilde and Daniel Walls

** A Spoiler Free Review **

Going bump in the Bradford night, the multi-award-winning, supernatural thriller ‘2:22 A Ghost Story’ continues its popular UK tour with a penultimate stop at Alhambra Theatre. Equally amusing as spine-chilling, this contemporary play is written by Danny Robins, of ‘The Battersea Poltergeist’ podcast fame, and brought to the stage alongside a creative team of the highest calibre. With not a spare seat for a single soul, electric anticipation filled the air as we waited for the dimly stage to reveal its secrets.

Entirely taking place in their recently purchased London home, young, professional couple Jenny (Fiona Wade) and Sam (George Rainsford) are spending the evening with Sam’s longstanding university friend, Lauren (Vera Chok), and her new partner Ben (Jay McGuiness). Jenny and Sam have been renovating their home, and the half-finished, open-plan kitchen/living space shows the layers of the lives of the previous owners. To the left, a peeling main door – a portal to the second floor – swallowed by half-painted black in which hangs a red digital clock. To the right, a modern kitchen extension in stark contrast to the decades old décor, extant wallpaper, and inherited furniture. At the rear, large patio doors open onto the shadowy night. Phoebe, their eleven-month-old daughter, is sleeping upstairs.

Jenny believes a paranormal presence may also be residing in their dream home. Her dinner guests however have different feelings, opinions, and thoughts. Yet Jenny’s wellbeing hinges on being believed, so she invites them to stay-up until 2:22am – the time at which the haunting occurs.

Holding vigil, the recognisable and accomplished quartet of stars from stage and screen deliver nuanced performances; powerfully peeling back the layers of shared history and evolving relationships. The characters are complex, each one of them fully formed and a fascinating story in their own unique way. Their chemistry was potent. In a heartbeat, the cast were able to switch between whip-smart dialogue which raised hairs on your neck to that which evoked laughter – a testimony to their skill and the quality of the writing and producing. It was this juxtaposition of comedy and eerie which held the tension and enthralled the audience.

Like the story, the stagecraft was current and cleverly combined lighting, sound, and visual effects to great effect. All strong drivers of the more involuntary emotional and physical responses to the mesmerising narrative. Who doesn’t love the shared experience of being startled followed by nervous laughter?!

The eagerly anticipated climax did not disappoint, and we spent the drive home delightfully discussing and dissecting what we had experienced. Despite knowing the ending, we both agreed that we would enjoy a repeat visitation to discover what we overlooked and lurked in this captivating show.

Theatre at its very best – ‘2:22 A Ghost Story’ is a modern classic and word-of-mouth sensation. Pensive, edge of your seat entertainment and the perfect mid-week chill; a Summer haunting not to be missed! The clock is counting down… book your tickets now.

Rating: Five ethereal Stars! 5/5

Tickets cost from £17.25.
On Stage from 28 May to 1 June, for more information or to book tickets visit https://www.bradford-theatres.co.uk/whats-on/222-a-ghost-story or call the Box Office on 01274 432000

Bradford Theatres, The Alhambra Theatre, Morley Street, Bradford BD7 1A
Tour details at https://222aghoststory.com/

The resplendent Edwardian theatre is the jewel in the cultural crown of Bradford. Stood within the clean, well-lit, and popular cultural quarter of the city, the Alhambra Theatre has been entertaining audiences for over a century and is perfectly suited for all production types and tours of the highest quality. The Theatre is surrounded by a range of bars, restaurants, and entertainment options for a great night out in the vibrant city. Arriving by car, routes to the theatre were well signposted and nearby parking was plentiful. Other transport links are nearby. However, it is worth noting that there is significant regeneration work taking place in the city, so it is advisable to allow plenty of time for your journey. Excitingly, the government has chosen Bradford to be the next ‘UK City of Culture’ for 2025. A huge honour for the city and a draw for new and old visitors alike.

The grand foyer is relaxed and spacious, leading to all accessible levels. We were greeted warmly on entering and felt a buzz in the air. We found the bars/concession stands to be well manned, stocked with a wide range of hot/cold drinks and treats; all of standard prices for theatres. Both stall and circle seats are very comfortable and provide excellent views of the stage.

Pre-show, we treated ourselves to a meal at the sumptuous ‘Restaurant 1914’. Open on show days and located on the Upper Circle level of the iconic theatre, R1914 is an absolute delight with its views over City Park and the Bradford skyline. The menu is seasonal, and the mouth watering range of starters, mains and deserts caters for all tastes. An extensive drinks menu compliments the food and a children’s menu is also available. Service from the front-of-house team was exceptional. Our meals were fresh, flavoursome, and filling. A fabulous additional five-stars for affordable luxury. We highly recommend upgrading your night (or afternoon) out to the next level and dining in style at R1914.
Book online https://www.bradford-theatres.co.uk/restaurant-1914 or via telephone 01274 431052.