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Tales of the paranormal have captured imaginations, fascinated and terrified humanity for centuries. Danny Robbins’ 2:22 A Ghost Story brings the traditional ghost story into the 21st Century, in a thrilling production.
Settling into their new home, Sam (Kevin Clifton) and Jenny (Stacey Dooley) spend their first dinner party with friends sparring over Jenny’s superstitions of a spirit haunting their house.
A simple yet engaging script carefully probes the subject of the paranormal, highlighting the absurdities of both extremes of the argument.
Robbins’ script is filled with the light and shade – and crucial comic relief that a play this intense demands. Poking fun at class prejudices and the strains of using Alexa, there are moments of relatability that erupt more than a few giggles to temper the nerves.
2:22 is regularly chastised for its stunt casting, but this touring incarnation puts naysayers’ gas at a peep.
Dooley and Clifton deliver a delightfully nuanced performance while bouncing off Grant Kilburn (Ben) and Shvorne Marks (Lauren). Kilburn’s comic timing is exquisite.
Tension is palpable and well-built throughout the two-hour production, only slightly punctured by wailing during scene changes, whose sole function is to jangle the nerves.
Its audience sworn to secrecy in Mousetrap fashion, the production has to be seen to be fully appreciated. Against a backdrop of constantly touring musical productions, 2:22 is a tonic for the theatre scene – and a thoroughly enjoyable night out.
2:22 A Ghost Story at King’s Theatre Glasgow until Saturday 20th August 2025, then touring
Photo: Helen Murray
