In a press statement, the producers announced, "After a hugely successful year thrilling audiences in its West End home, Ghost Stories has announced it will be closing on the 19th June 2011. The play, which has recently opened in Canada, has enjoyed phenomenal success at The Duke of York’s Theatre. The production has scared over 200,000 people in the UK so far and the Producers are planning on bringing its unique sense of scary fun to more audiences across the UK, with plans for a full tour in autumn 2012."
Co-written by Jeremy Dyson (best known for his TV work with "The League of Gentlemen") and Andy Nyman (best known for being co-creator and director of Derren Brown's TV and stage shows), the production is directed by Dyson, Nyman and the Lyric's artistic director, Sean Holmes. It is designed by Jon Bausor, with lighting by James Farncombe, sound by Nick Manning, special effects by Scott Penrose and movement direction by Lewis Peploe.
In the show, "three men gather, each with an uncanny tale to tale," according to press materials prior to the show's original run at the Lyric Hammersmith. "Their chilling stories will bleed off the stage and into your dreams." Press materials for the current run include the following warning to potential theatregoers: "Please be advised that Ghost Stories contains moments of extreme shock and tension. The show is unsuitable for anyone under the age of 15. We strongly advise those of a nervous disposition to think very seriously before attending."
Prior to its closure, it is challenging four people to spend an entire night sealed inside a wooden coffin on the stage of the Duke of York's, one of London’s oldest and most haunted theatres. Those brave enough to make it through the night without leaving their coffin will have a chance of winning two flights to New York.
The competition will take place May 11. Each competitor will receive two tickets for the evening’s performance of Ghost Stories, then at 11 PM when the theatre closes its doors to the public, all four contestants will enter their individual wooden coffin. The lid to each coffin will then be sealed shut with only air holes for ventilation. Contestants will be left alone with only the dark to keep them company. At 7 AM the next day, the theatre's management will enter the building to release those still in their coffins. If more than one person has been brave enough, the winner will be chosen via a draw and will win two flights to New York. To enter and for more details, visit www.ghoststoriestheshow.co.uk.
To book for the show only, contact the box office at 0870 060 6623, or visit the website.
