Andrew Watson has previously directed the comedy Ghost Writer and is super-excited to bring this show – packed with suspense and humour – to Whakatāne audiences.

Ghost Writer, written by British playwright David Tristram, is a fast-paced comedy that showcases the playwright's signature wit.

“He is a fantastic writer, with a really good sense of humour, and there are lots of funny lines in the play,” said Watson.

Tristram, known for his satirical comedies, takes aim at the quirks of theatre culture in Ghost Writer. The play humorously mocks theatre personalities, including the often dramatic "showmances" (romances between cast members) and the sometimes-inflated egos of actors.

At the heart of the play is the story of Edward Pinfold, a playwright played by seasoned Whakatāne actor Drew Manning. Pinfold is visited by the ghost of his deceased wife, Ruby (played by Jacqui Watson), who requests that he write a play to expose her murderer.

With echoes of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, the plot features a play within a play, but don't worry – no deep knowledge of Shakespeare is required to enjoy this thrilling comedy.

The cast includes Simon Mees as Alex, Edward’s friend; Jessica Sneha-Gray as Glenda; Kylie Richardson as Frances, a washed-up actor; and Nathan Minchinton as Hedley, another actor caught up in the theatrical chaos.

The director is also quick to credit the hard-working crew behind the scenes who help bring the production together.

Watson first directed Ghost Writer in Upper Hutt a decade ago and recalls how much fun he had bringing it to life.

“I thoroughly enjoyed it. I really think this is a hilarious play; the audience reactions were brilliant. It tickles my sense of humour and so I really wanted to bring it to Whakatane.”

A long-time member of Theatre Whakatāne, Watson has been involved in various capacities since 2018. Theatregoers may remember him from previous roles, including the Auctioneer in Phantom of the Opera, the Narrator in Into the Woods, and as the director of Mystery on the Orient Express.

Ghost Writer will be staged at Gateway Theatre, located at the Hub. With its intimate setting, the venue is perfect for the play’s adult themes and dark humour.

The play will run for two weeks, with eight performances from April 2 to 12. Given the theatre's seating capacity of just 84, theatre enthusiasts are encouraged to secure their tickets early for what promises to be a fun-filled, hauntingly hilarious experience.