The Woman in Black at the King’s Theatre Glasgow Review
The Woman in Black
King’s Theatre, Glasgow
17-21 January 2017
Review by: Deborah Mackenzie
This thriller (or ghost story), adapted by Stephen Mallatratt from the novel by Susan Hill has been running for many years (first performance in December 1987) and it comes as no surprise that is has had this long running success, as it keeps you jumping and squealing in fright.
The simple set was very effective and encouraged the audience to use their imagination, which was not difficult as you were drawn into the story with the use of sound effects, lighting and narration that came from all corners of the theatre.
It starts off in a theatre where old man Arthur Kipps (David Acton) enlists the help of a young actor (Matthew Spencer) to help him tell his story with the belief it will break the curse that has been cast over him and his family by the spectre of the Woman in Black. At first it is quite comical as the young actor tries to get Mr Kipps to engage his audience and not merely read the script. It is only once the real story unfolds that your imagination takes you into the dark corners of his fears.
After the interval both actors are taking turns in bringing Eel Marsh and the ghostly goings on there to life. It is through gauzed scenes and clever lighting the woman in black makes her appearance bringing forth screams and shrieks as they are startled by ‘things that go bump in the night’, and your imagination is running riot.
I was transported into the story and could ‘see’ everything that was left to imagination, like the dog, Spider, horse and trap and the misty marsh. The story had a bit of everything for me when it comes to a good ghost story, from the strange noises, bangs and the locked door. It is a production not to be missed, but be prepared to be scared!
Rating: 5/5 
Tickets cost from £15.40 to £38.40 (plus £2.85 transaction fee).
The Woman in Black is at the King’s Theatre in Glasgow until 21 January 2017. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0844 871 7648.
King’s Theatre, 297 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4JN | 0844 871 7648
