Photo credit: Andrew Billington
The New Vic hosts ‘The Haunting’ in the latest production at the theatre. Adapted by Hugh Janes based on several ghost stories from Charles Dickens, this thriller is sure to set pulses racing.
Dickens himself was fascinated by the spiritual world and the occult and as the lights descend, we find ourselves in the Victorian era at an isolated and crumbling mansion set on a lonely moor. There to organise and catalogue the library as part of an estate sale of the late owner, David Filde begins to work day and night whilst a storm rages on outside.
Distracted by strange sounds and unexplained apparitions, David becomes convinced the house is haunted by a ghostly figure. To solve the mystery, he must convince his skeptical employer, the new Lord Gray, to journey with him to uncover what is behind the strange goings on.
Richard Leeming played David Filde who excellently portrayed the fastidious young book dealer. He worked excellently alongide David Ahmad who was Lord Gray. They both submerged themselves into their roles and their delivery and movement added to the atmosphere, creating the dramatic tension throughout the production. They also played off eachother well with the witty dialogue that was interspersed which brought brief comedic moments to the less dramatic moments of the thriller.
Jessica Hole cut a harrowing figure as Mary, who appeared in brief but chilling snatches for much of the first half, building the tension for the final act. Her movement and delivery added much to the atmosphere.
Michael Holt’s set, Daniella Liu’s lighting and Jamie Lu’s sound were immense. The effects were will timed and brilliantly delivered and combined marvellously to immerse you in the whole experience, not withstanding were responsible for some of the jump scare’s throughout.
The three-hander was excellently delivered creating a gripping production and one we would most definitely recommend to see. Its ending (no spoilers) was certainly a surprise which provided much conversation on the car ride home.
The show is on until 15th June with several matinees available. Tickets are available from the box office and online here: https://www.newvictheatre.org.uk/productions/charles-dickens-the-haunting/
