Last weekend I took my mum to see Ghost: The Musical (based on 1990 film starring Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze) for a surprise for her 50th Birthday. I think most people would agree that Ghost is just one of those timeless films, in the same league as classics such as Dirty Dancing and Grease. A film that never gets old and can be watched again and again by all generations. So I think anyone that tries to recreate such an iconic film is taking a huge risk but I have to say, we were both thoroughly impressed.
The remake certainly does the film justice and doesn’t loose any of the magic from the original. It’s a brilliant piece of theatre, the staging and effects throughout the entire show is astounding, and every scene and illusion is created perfectly to the smallest detail. Likewise, the show is supported by a top notch cast.
Both vocally and visually, the entire cast were very strong. Sharon D Clarke, who stars as Oda May Brown, stole the show for me with her witty and believable portray of Whoppie Goldberg’s original role, keeping in perfect character throughout while still making it her own.
Cassie Levy (Molly Jenson) has a beautifully effortless voice, conveying great emotion throughout and maintaining brilliant chemistry on stage with Richard Fleeshman (Sam Wheat). Fleeshman’s strong vocals shone, alongside his great stage presence. Also....definitely one for the ladies to look out for!! The boy from Coronation Street has bulked out and looks super hot! ;-)
As for the songs, I'm not sure there is a classic in the making, but they were catchy, easy to listen to and worked well. As you would expect, Unchained Melody played a large role in the show, appearing several times but has been given a modern and playful twist.
I think Ghost works so well as a musical because the production doesn’t derive too far from original script and they have kept the charm and character, along with the moments people love about the film. One criticism I would have is that I felt the final fight scene was a little rushed and could have been made more powerful.
I would certainly recommend Ghost The Musical as one to watch. Fans of the film won’t be disappointed by a shoddy attempt at a show, and those who have never seen it can experience the magic of Ghost live. It’s an old classic refreshed and bought to life, and something to continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.
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