2:22 A Ghost Story at Milton Keynes Theatre Review

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

Reviewed by Mel Randle

Last night I went to Milton Keynes Theatre to watch the critically acclaimed paranormal thriller 2:22 A Ghost Story. The play written by Danny Robins has been wowing audiences since its debut in the West End in 2021 but it’s one of Theatre’s best keep secrets because you can’t discuss it outside the theatre with people who haven’t seen it! So there will be no spoilers here!! It also means you have to go with an open mind having no idea what to expect! I had heard people raving about it but am also appreciative that people have different tastes so I didn’t want to get my hope up and be disappointed. I’m pleased to say I wasn’t!

The production has a main cast of four and many famous faces have taken on the roles since its launch. In this current run, real-life partners Stacey Dooley and Kevin Clifton (of Strictly fame) play husband and wife team Sam and Jenny, and Grant Kilburn and Shvorne Marks (Endeavour) play partners Ben and Lauren. Rochelle Harvey and Paul Socket complete the cast with minor roles, minor due to the nature of the story which in no way undermines their acting abilities.

The play is staged within a period of 24 hours and centres around a dinner party held at the new home of Sam and Jenny. Jenny believes the house to be haunted and Sam tries to discredit her with logic and reason. The two couples debate the subject of ghosts, science, scepticism and clairvoyance and decide to stay up until the key time Jenny says the ghostly activity occurs – 02:22. That I’m afraid is all I can tell you or I’ll have to kill you, because what comes next is what creates the suspense and keeps this play so exciting. To tell would completely ruin the experience for someone who has not seen it. But I can tell you it’s brilliant, funny – Grant Kilburn gives a great performance as cocky cockney Ben – profound and you need to be of a strong disposition because it’s edge of the seat stuff with surprises along the way!

It is, as it says on the tin, a ghost story, and the atmosphere is really enhanced by the atmospheric lighting, eerie music, dry ice and a few tricks along the way. It’s not until you leave the theatre and look back that you realise the significance of some of these little signs. I am once against impressed with the calibre of set for what is a touring show. It reminded me of the ‘Friends’ apartment set with full open plan living/kitchen space, ceiling and glass roof. I always have such admiration for the set designers who erect these in different venues.

I found the whole thing completely believable and it kept me captivated throughout. In my opinion there was too much unnecessary swearing but on the whole I loved it and would recommend to anyone. There is an age guidance of 12+ due to the nature of the story and a warning for strobe light effects.

Rating: 5/5

2:22 A Ghost Story is playing at Milton Keynes Theatre until Saturday 20th September.
Tickets available from £15.00 subject to a transaction fee of £3.95

For more information and to book, visit www.atgtickets.com