I got tickets to see the Woman in Black for my birthday. I had seen the film in the cinema so I knew what to expect from the story, but I was intrigued to see how the theatrical adaptation would compare.
We arrived for an evening performance at the Fortune Theatre in Covent Garden which was bustling with fellow theatre goers. We had seats in the second row which was great, but it was such a small and intimate venue that regardless of where you sit you'll feel the same excitable thrill as the lights go off and the play begins.
I found the Woman in Black eerie and the atmosphere was tense at times, but I wouldn't describe it as terrifying. It was definitely more scary than Ghost Stories which was more comedic and silly (but still enjoyable if you didn't take it too seriously). The audience got quite involved by screaming at the jump scares and whispering to each other.
The two main actors were fantastic, improvising with the minimal set and swapping roles with ease by flicking on a coat or changing an accent. The actors made use of the full auditorium which added to the immersive feel of the play. The scenes on the marshes were the most chilling, it was easy to imagine the characters travelling through them. The use of mist and lighting were effective in capturing the cold, damp feel of the lonely moors.
If you want to experience a well crafted, traditional ghost story, then The Woman in Black is a must see! The show is currently playing at the Fortune Theatre, London. Tickets are available here: http://thewomaninblack.com/
Written by Jennifer Panting.
