2:22 A Ghost Story, Edinburgh Playhouse****: a superb supernatural thriller
It’s impossible to fully recreate the impact of seeing this show for the first time - but a return visit holds up very strongly indeed.
That is thanks to an excellent cast, and a ghost story that is superbly told across two acts.
It only takes a few minutes before the first folk jump in their seats - it’s best to put your drinks down, unless you want to head home with a red wine stain down your shirt - but the atmosphere builds long before the lights dim.
As you take in the open set of a half refurbished old house, your eyes are drawn to the clock above the door, and you’re suddenly aware the ambient music is getting louder and more intense.
Matthew Dunster’s production absolutely draws you in, and that attention is held by the cast of four. What is, effectively, a middle class dinner party becomes something much more absorbing as this ghost story unfolds
Exhausted new mum Jenny (Shvorne Marks) is convinced her new home is haunted after her experiences at exactly 2:22am. Her husband Sam (James Bye - best known as Martin Fowler in Eastenders) has an explanation for everything, and his know-it-all approach is challenged as they host two guests, his oldest friend from uni, Lauren (Natalie Casey) and her new bloke, down to earth builder Ben (Grant Kilburn).
They all agree to stay awake until 2:22 to discover the truth, but as the drink flows and debates fly, we get to see so much of their own stories.
Danny Robins’ script is sharp throughout while the set design (Anna Fleischle) and the sound by Lucy Carter are perfect. Every part of this production helps to build the tension that keeps everyone hooked.
“Sssh! Please don’t tell” is the sign beamed on to the set as the actors take their bow.
If you are seeing it for the first time, you will immerse yourself in a fabulous supernatural thriller. If you’re seeing it for a second time, you’ll be right behind them.