Marking 30 years of nurturing young talent, Young Pleasance returns to the Edinburgh Fringe with Ghost Light, a hauntingly imaginative and theatrically rich production that celebrates the enduring spirit of the stage. Set in the legendary Theatre Royal Drury Lane, this spine-tingling tale blends ghostly intrigue with heartfelt homage to the theatre’s past, offering a captivating experience for audiences of all ages.
Izzy, a young wardrobe assistant, begins a summer job at Drury Lane only to discover that the costumes she handles are haunted by the ghosts of their former wearers. From the moment she steps backstage, the spirits of theatre legends; Nell Gwynn, Vesta Tilley, Sarah Siddons, and even Grimaldi, spring to life, visible only to her. With the help of Rob and a team of enthusiastic YouTube ghost hunters, Izzy attempts to uncover the secrets of these spectral presences, leading to a thrilling and often humorous journey through theatrical history.
Joanna Billington and Will Feasey’s writing is wonderfully layered, weaving references to classic productions like 42nd Street, Oklahoma! and Burlington Bertie into a narrative that feels both fresh and reverent. The show’s meta-theatrical setting, backstage at one of London’s most haunted theatres, adds a delightful sense of insider charm, making it a treat for theatre lovers.
The young cast from Pleasance are uniformly excellent, with standout performances from the actor playing Grimaldi, who channels the charisma of a cabaret Emcee, and the duo of Rob and Izzy, whose chemistry anchors the emotional core of the story. The choreography pays loving tribute to the golden age of musicals, and the production design, complete with gorgeous period costumes and an evocative set, elevates the show’s ghostly atmosphere.
With its ambitious storytelling, youthful energy, and theatrical flair, Ghost Light is another triumph for Young Pleasance. It’s a must-see for Fringe-goers seeking something spirited, smart, and steeped in stagecraft.
