If you’re the type of theatregoer who likes to be kept on the edge of your seat, we’ve got delightfully terrifying news for you. Susan Hill’s much-loved fearsome story The Woman in Black is returning to Melbourne, just in time to match the energy of our chilling winter.
Stephen Mallatratt’s stage adaptation will demonstrate the power of illusion, atmosphere and controlled horror for Melbourne audiences via the Athenaeum Theatre stage from June 14, 2024. The acclaimed show holds the honour of being the second-longest running play in West End history, bested only by Agatha Christie’s classic murder-mystery, The Mousetrap. You might also know The Woman in Black from the 2012 film adaptation starring Daniel Radcliffe.
Two of Australia’s most esteemed actors will star in the hair-raising play: Daniel Macpherson and John Waters. Macpherson rose to fame on Neighbours, before conquering the stage, screen and film worlds internationally. Recently, he primed his spooky skills in 2: 22 – A Ghost Story. Waters is known for his impressive 20-year run on Play School, alongside a host of stage and screen credits. He also starred in the 2006 Aussie production of The Woman in Black opposite Brett Tucker.
There’s no question that Melburnians love a good supernatural thriller. Coming fresh off the back of 2022’s Ghost Stories and last year’s 2: 22 – A Ghost Story, this eerie play will make for the third ghostly tale to spook our city in as many years.
Producer Alex Woodward says he knew he had to bring The Woman in Black to Australia when he first saw the play in 2020.
“It’s such an incredible gripping show that is so spellbinding, it has you on the edge of your seat for two hours,” he said. “When it came to casting we knew it was perfect to ask theatre royalty John Waters to reprise his role he debuted in Australia more than 15 years ago. Daniel was also a natural choice for his incredible ability, charm and charisma.”
Tickets for the Melbourne season of The Woman in Black will be on sale from Monday, January 29. Find out more at the production website.
