Why We Loved Ghost the Musical at Sunderland Empire

Walking back to their apartment late one night, a tragic encounter sees Sam murdered and his girlfriend Molly left alone. But with the help of a psychic, Sam (who is trapped between this world and the next) tries to communicate with Molly hoping to save her from grave danger…

It’s a classic romance with a supernatural twist (made famous by the 1990 film starring Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore), and we’re excited to see this musical stage adaptation.  

Rebekah Lowings who plays Molly has a beautiful soprano voice and continues the emotional current of the story while Josh St. Clair, who plays Sam, has a strong vocal range and is both comedic in scenes with Oda Mae (played by the brilliant Jacqui Dubois) and emotional throughout his performance of an iconic (and, we imagine, difficult) part.

Jacqui Dubois is a joy to watch and a much-needed comic relief in this emotional play filled with poignant moments. She brings light, life and an amazing range to her role, made famous by the iconic Whoopi Goldberg. 

Although Carl (played by James Mateo-Salt) is the villain in this story, James shows a great range and blends somewhat likeable elements with his villainous traits. A surprising addition to the cast was iconic entertainer Les Dennis, who plays a hospital ghost as well as Lionel Ferguson. 

We marvel at the set throughout the performance (we love the train), and the way the use of movement cleverly manages the more fantastical elements of the story. Meanwhile Sam’s ghost is brought ‘to life’ with the help of a smart lighting team. 

Despite all of these aspects, it’s of course the music which plays the biggest role in a musical – and, as you’d imagine, it’s an emotional soundtrack. Rebekah performs a range of beautiful ballads to progress Molly’s story and the show’s tracks include The Righteous Brothers’ iconic single Unchained Melody (a Sam solo) alongside many more terrific songs co-written by Eurythmics’ and Sunderland's own Dave Stewart. We particularly loved Molly’s solo, Nothing Stops Another Day. 

Fans of the film will love the musical, but it’s equally a must-watch for fresh eyes. Don’t forget your tissues for this heart-wrenching show. 

Ghost the Musical plays at Sunderland Empire until Saturday 31st August.