The Stage

Ghosts

Published Wednesday 30 March 2011 at 14:58 by John Hannam

When director Michael Cabot was in his first year at university he struggled to be impressed with studying Ibsen’s Ghosts. He admits not to have engaged with the play at all and the subsequent student production left him cold. Judged by his current production, they were early lessons well learnt. He breathes new life into this absorbing and emotional adaptation by Frank McGuinness and I could have certainly have sat through more. It just gets better and better as the scandalous tale unfolds, with a string of surprising revelations. Amid the serious themes there are a few unexpected lighter moments which work so well. It’s a play you think about on the way home - appreciating the importance of some of the early dialogue.

Hasan Dixon as Oswald Alving, Pauline Whitaker as Helene Alving in Ghosts at Winchester Theatre Royal Photo: Sheila Burnett

Peter Cadden as Engstrand comes close to stealing this five-hander. In a comparatively cameo role his entrances are eagerly anticipated. Hasan Dixon goes through so many emotions in his fine portrayal of Oswald and several of his scenes are among the most memorable in this production. Pauline Whitaker, in her difficult role of Helen Alving - tortured by her ghosts of the past - is just a little inconsistent and Brendan Fleming is not wholly convincing as Pastor Manders. There are missed opportunities to put more feeling into his characterisation. Abby Leamon is very confident and effective as Regine. The beautifully constructed set adds another dimension and is well utilised by the players.

There are 50 venues on this long tour and it’s likely this powerful production will produce a wealth of new Ibsen fans, thanks to Frank McGuinness and Michael Cabot.

The London Classic Theatre company has a proven track record of high quality touring productions and this one will enhance their reputation even more.