THE "BOO!" factor has a big place in the theatrical ghost story.
The Woman In Black is the perfect example. Its West End longevity, despite a slender cast, has been solidified not just by astute dialogue but Big-Bang-Theory tactics that would have Most Haunted's Yvette Fielding screaming for weeks.
A foundation of darkness, a well-laid silence and then a sudden crash, or Derek Acorah screeching "GET OUT!", always does the business when it comes to clearing haunted houses or wetting the knickers.
This production is a masterpiece, not so much through the anticipated use of sound, but that of of light and shade.
A collaboration with legendary horror flick-makers Hammer, this Anthony Neilson adaptation of Shirley Jackson's novel became the legendary terror movie The Haunting, in 1963. Directed by Melly Still, it has exactly those ingredients - and a dollop more.
Huge plaudits then to the sleight of illusion manufactured by set designer Miriam Buether, lighting man Jack Knowles and projection specialists 59 Productions, giving depth to the crucially daunting infrastructure of the creaking, crashing, Hill House.
The benefits of a revolving stage, strategic dry ice mist and the ingenious, menacing use of a spreading, amoeba-black backdrop produce a constant spine tingiing effect as the five strong cast get lost, stepping through doors in the house from hell that seemingly spring out of nowhere.
This is essential to give punch to something that is not strictly a ghost story. as those who are familiar with the Robert Wise directed classic 60s movie adaptation The Haunting, will already know.
No one ever visits Hill House, especially not after dark, according to the blurb. Three strangers are invited to join the mysterious Dr Montague at the eerie house on the hill. As their stay unfolds, they are plagued by a series of inexplicable events.
The clue lies in the line murmured by invited house guest and psychic researcher Theo (Chipo Chung): "Houses aren't haunted - people are."
So the special effects lend an extra oomph to a tale that is not traditional haunted house material but a nightmarish psychological conundrum involving a tortured mind, apparent poltergeists and, ultimately, death.
Cheery, huh?
Personally, I've always preferred the chilling MR James spirit of peace-off and bad will to all mankind that comes with Christmas rather than merry Dames and wotnot.
So this all comes as a welcome present.
More please.
8/10
*The Haunting of Hill House runs until January 16.
