Ghost Stories at Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield, Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Joy Wright
Ghost Stories is the spine-chilling theatrical production currently spooking theatre goers at the Lyceum Theatre this week.
Written by Jeremy Dyson and Andy Nyman beginning in 2008, then touring from 2020, this play has been captivating audiences globally since its debut and stands as a hallmark of immersive horror theatre. For enthusiasts of suspense, psychological tension, and the art of the unseen, this performance is sure to satisfy.
We’re introduced to the night and to the concept of Ghost Stories by Professor Goodman, portrayed with a nuanced blend of scepticism and vulnerability by Dan Tetsell. There are light moments, humour, ridicule even. But it changes.
Goodman, a professional sceptic of the supernatural, is on a quest to investigate three unsettling cases: an eerie encounter experienced by a night-watchman, a teenager’s terrifying ordeal, and an inexplicable incident involving an expectant father. As each narrative unfolds, both the professor and the audience find themselves ensnared in a web of growing dread and unsettling uncertainty.
The set and costume design by Jon Bausor effectively create an immersive and claustrophobic environment, transitioning between the tedium of a lecture hall and more nightmarish settings.
James Farncombe’s lighting design exemplifies the art of suggestion, casting ominous shadows and employing many techniques to heighten tension. Everything which induces irrational fear is here, darkness most prevalent of all perhaps.
However, the true highlights of the production are Nick Manning’s sound design and Scott Penrose’s special effects, which ensure that the audience remains in a state of unease. Every creak, whisper, and unexpected jolt is meticulously designed to maximize suspense, rendering this production an unforgettable sensory experience. The woman sat in front of me sat often turning her head in fear at the subtlety of sound effects which were wonderful in building such a broadly tense atmosphere in the audience.
Another screamed at one point, echoed by several others in the audience and the seats reverberate with shocked responses at times. In a quiet moment there was a whispered expletive behind me as the tension became too much.
What else is compelling horror if not a good story and phenomenal sounds and visual to take the imagination all the way into fear?
It was great to see Clive Mantle on stage, you’ll perhaps recognise him from TV going back to the 80’s. More so to see him in a different genre to his norm. And he does it well.
This production is not recommended for audience members below the age of 15 and with good reason. It’s also a relatively short production at 90 minutes and in Sheffield there is no interval, all the better to terrify you if you cannot escape into the light.
Ghost Stories has enjoyed a lengthy and successful run, having originally premiered in London’s West End before embarking on international tours across the UK. The 2025 tour continues to affirm its lasting appeal, with audiences in Sheffield eagerly welcoming its distinctive fusion of horror and theatrical artistry. For those contemplating attendance, tickets are available for the Lyceum Theatre.
Tickets are available at www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk or at the box office in person or on 0114 249 6000 with prices from £15.00 to £46.50.
There aren’t many seats left, Sheffielders are brave no doubt, dare face the fear?
Rating: 5/5