Review by Kathy Forsyth

Ghost Writer, a witty and suspense-filled whodunnit by British playwright David Tristram, opens tonight at Gateway Theatre, offering an evening of captivating live theatre.

Directed by Andrew Watson, Theatre Whakatāne’s latest production delivers a superb mix of sharp one-liners, tension, and mystery, all while keeping the laughs coming.

This play is filled with risqué dialogue and dark humour, making it best suited for an adult audience.

From start to finish, the play balances suspense with comedy, keeping the audience thoroughly engaged.

The story begins with Edward Pinfold, a depressed and tormented playwright, played to perfection by Drew Manning (who theatre fans might remember as the obnoxious general from Blackadder).

Manning’s portrayal of Edward is nuanced and evolves beautifully throughout the play.

Edward is struggling with writer’s block, unable to create, and living in the attic of his best friend Alex’s home.

The occasion of his late wife Ruby’s death anniversary weighs heavily on him. Ruby, a talented but tempestuous actress, died from an overdose after an after-party for the play Hamlet, in which she played Ophelia.

Simon Mees shines as Alex, the endlessly supportive (if slightly flamboyant) best friend, who desperately tries to lift Edward’s spirits, even setting him up on a date with Glenda, a gentle and sweet character played by Jessica Sneha Gray.

Mees’ portrayal of a well-meaning gay Alex, attempting to cheer up his depressed friend, brings levity and charm to the stage. Alex and Edward have an excellent rapport, their scenes together are heartwarming and hilarious.

The play takes a ghostly turn when Ruby’s spirit, portrayed by Jacqui Watson, makes her chilling appearance. Watson’s portrayal of the snarky, mischievous Ruby is convincing, setting the stage for the next twist in the story.

Ruby reveals that she was murdered, not the victim of an accidental overdose, and persuades Edward to write a play that will expose her killer.

The second act intensifies with a hilarious and explosive gathering of has-been actors, all potential suspects, in the attic. With Ruby’s ghost lurking unseen, the tension builds, and the action becomes even more absurd and comedic as the characters bicker and try to uncover the murderer.

The biting banter between actors Hedley (Nathan Minchington) and Francis (Kylee Richardson) provides some of the funniest moments of the play, with their sharp exchanges ensuring plenty of laughs, and the ghost of Ruby always present and up to no good.

As always, the Theatre Whakatāne stage design crew has done an exceptional job with the set. The attic setting is full of clever details that add surprise, constantly delighting the audience as the action unfolds.

Gateway Theatre’s intimate setting is perfect for this experience, creating a personal atmosphere where every twist and turn in the plot feels immediate and engaging.

With a seating capacity of only 84, tickets are limited for the two-week run of this show. Don’t miss the chance to see this hilariously spooky performance – book your tickets soon.

WHAT: Ghost Writer

WHERE: Gateway Theatre

WHEN: April 2 to 12

TICKETS: iTicket.co.nz