With the intriguing title Charles Dickens’ The Haunting, you would be forgiven for supposing that this month’s production by Newport Playgoers would be a dark and moody social commentary of 19th century England based on a lesser known Dickens book. However, in reality this adaptation of the ghost stories of Dickens is really a humorous parody of Victorian horror stories mixed with séancetrickery complete with tapping and knocking, phantom footsteps, doors opening and closing of their own accord, ghostly apparitions, objects flying off walls and the occasional blood curdling scream. The cleverly-written play has all the elements needed to evoke Victorian theatre with an intriguing storyline and unravelling mysteries.
Two characters bring the narrative alive – David, the fresh-faced young man, newly-employed by the esoteric and reserved Lord Grey. They convey innocence and mystery combined with an edge of underlying foreboding to evoke the tension needed to set the audience on edge and be intrigued as to where the dark secrets lie. So, sit back and enjoy a well-planned and executed Victorian ghost story.

Newport Playgoers at the Dolman Theatre. ‘The Haunting’ is at the Dolman Theatre from Tuesday October 13 – Friday October 16 at 7.15pm, with a matinee performance on Saturday October 17 at 2.30pm. To book tickets call 01633 263670 or visit www.dolmantheatre.co.uk.

Coming soon from Newport Playgoers:
November 10 – 14, 2015: The LadyKillers by Graham Linehan.
January 12 – 16, 2016: As You Like It by William Shakespeare.
February 9 – 13, 2016: The Anniversary by Bill Mcllwraith.

BECOME A MEMBER
Application forms for membership of Newport Playgoers are available at the Dolman Theatre Box Office. As a special introductory offer, new members will receive their first year’s membership for £70 for adults (a saving of £42.50) or £35 for students (a saving of £41.50).

GET INVOLVED
We’re always looking for volunteers keen to help out with the staging of each production. This includes everything from doing front of house, box office or serving refreshments and sweets and
programmes. Or maybe you have the urge to tread the boards or work backstage. Everyone is welcome – you’ll find it’s a great way to make new friends – and have fun! For more information call 01633 263670