Jacqui Dubois & Josh St. Clair in Ghost The Muscial UK Tour (credit Alastair Muir)
Ghost The Musical, The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham.
The movie Ghost was released in 1990 and was a huge commercial success grossing over $500 million and becoming the highest grossing film of the year – and at that time the third highest grossing film of all time. It starred Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore, and Whoopi Golberg – who scored an Oscar for her role. It also features one of the most iconic movie scenes – the potter’s wheel scene (and yes – it’s here!).
This musical version premiered in 2011 and is completely faithful to the film. The story follows young couple Sam and Molly as they move into together and begin a new chapter in their relationship. One night as they are returning to their Manhattan apartment they are mugged and Sam gets shot and killed during a tussle with the assailant. However, as his spirit leaves his body he doesn’t realise he is dead so he is left in limbo and still remains on earth in spirit form. When he realises the attack wasn’t a random one and that Molly is also in danger he is panicked at what he can do as he is merely a “ghost”. He visits a psychic medium but realises she is a fraud, however, she can inexplicably hear him so he enlists (or rather insists!) on her help to save Molly.
Josh St. Clair and Rebekah Lowings play Sam and Molly and are both exceptional vocalists. Also a special mention goes to Jamie Pritchard who at this performance played devious work colleague Carl – also providing excellent vocals. Jacqui DuBois absolutely steals the show however as psychic Oda Mae Brown. She provides much needed comedy to the story and is absolutely hilarious with many laugh out loud moments. She really lights up the stage and proceedings in general.
The Righteous Brothers hit single “Unchained Melody” was a massive hit all over again when it was featured in the movie and it is included here as a crowd-pleasing running theme. The rest of the songs are written by Dave Stewart (Eurythmics) and Glen Ballard – who has written hits for the likes of Wilson Phillips and Alainis Morisette. A particular highlight is the beautiful “With You”.
If you’re a fan of the film you’ll love it. If you’ve not seen the film go anyway – you’ll love it.
4 stars. A hauntingly good musical.
