2:22 – A Ghost Story is now spooking Melbourne audiences. This production first thrilled audiences in the West End and LA, and is now a cult phenomenon. You’ll find yourself on the edge of your seat in this adrenaline-fuelled play, which combines supernatural intrigue with social commentary. Along the way, there will also be funny moments to ease the tension. 2:22 – A Ghost Story is performing in Her Majesty’s Theatre for very limited season, and must go on Sunday August 20.
2:22 – A Ghost Story
Over a spiralling dinner party between friends, boundaries are pushed and beliefs are tested. Anxious new mum Jenny believes that something is haunting her baby every night at 2:22am, but her science-loving husband Sam doesn’t believe it. As they argue with each other, and debate with their dinner guests, belief and scepticism clash, and secrets emerge. All they need to do is stay up until 2:22, and then they’ll know for sure. Do you dare join them?
Check out the trailer from the UK to get a sense of the show:
Written by creator of the hit BBC podcast ‘The Battersea Poltergeist’ Danny Robins, and directed by Olivier Award-winner Matther Dunster, this play will keep you on your toes. This production was nominated for an Olivier Award, and won Best New Play at What’s on Stage. This cult-favourite has had a number of high-profile actors and celebrities among the cast, including Sophia Bush, Stephanie Beatriz, Tom Felton, Constance Wu and Finn Wittrock. Lily Allen also made her theatrical debut with 2:22 – A Ghost Story.
For the Melbourne production, Gemma Ward is taking on the role of Jenny, with Remy Hii as Jenny’s husband Sam. Meanwhile, Ruby Rose is playing their friend Lauren, with Daniel MacPherson in the role of Ben.
“We are thrilled with the stellar cast that has been assembled for 2:22 – A Ghost Story and delighted to provide Australian audiences an opportunity to see this group of iconic Australian performers up close and personal on-stage!” said Torben Brookman, on behalf of the producers.
Review
The play is well-written, with clues scattered here and there that point to its satisfying twist. There are gripping moments of tension, like the red digital clock, ticking away the minutes until 2:22, and a candlelit séance scene. The play has also been adapted to be set in Melbourne, which led to some funny bits of dialogue. Daniel MacPherson in particular was a definite crowd pleaser, but all the actors did a convincing job.
However, if you’re not a fan of jump scares — be warned. This play is full of them. To transition from one scene to the next, the show regularly uses the deafening sound of screeching foxes and a bright red light to jolt you out of your seat. It’s a cheap trick used in an otherwise great production.
Overall, it’s an entertaining ride that you won’t regret.