A West End Worthy Performance From WBOS

John Wetherall as Sam Wheat & Laura Stanford as Molly Jenson. Photography by Ariane Photography Studio

Based on the 1990 romantic fantasy, Ghost The Musical tells the very human tale of a spiritual love
that transcends the greatest of barriers. Taking care to respect the classic screenplay, WBOS present a stellar re-telling of the story with a few tweaks and a lot of talent.

The show opens with Here Right Now performed by the three leads: John Wetherall as Sam, Laura 
Stanford as Molly, and George Stuart as best-friend Carl. The relationship between the trio is played to perfection throughout, with comedy, anger and tenderness shifting to reflect the unfolding story, it was really engaging to watch. In particular, the scenes between Molly and Carl made for brilliant viewing: grief, awkward affection and the ultimate betrayal narrated with real emotion by the omniscient Sam.

Stuart’s portrayal of turncoat Carl was dynamic and conflicted, and he commanded the stage with 
soaring vocals and confidence far beyond his 22 years. Wetherall was equally well-cast, and played 
the present and departed Sam with depth. Most impressive, though, was the brilliant turn by 
Stanford as Molly. Her beautiful hushed tones and impressive belt gave real heart to her anguish, 
particularly in With You, which left few dry eyes in the audience.

Laura Wynter took on the role of reluctant psychic Oda Mae Brown, made famous in the film by 
Whoopi Goldberg. Whilst elements of the character were a rightful homage, Wynter gave a great 
individual performance whilst giving the audience the eccentric personality they know and love. A 
gorgeous gospel voice, she shone in numbers Are You A Believer? and I’m Outta Here, but never at 
the expense of the scene.

Special mention must go to Maison Kelly as Subway Ghost, whose offbeat and tormented spirit was played with conviction. 

The ensemble and dance ensemble had clearly worked hard also, as numbers were well sang and 
executed with purpose and precision. The storytelling too should be applauded, their presence set 
the scene and supported the principals to move the narrative forward with pace, with More, Rain/Hold On and the subway transition to watch out for as particular highlights.

WBOS did a superb job at bringing this classic to the local stage, with incredible emotion and 
performances worthy of any West End theatre. A definite hit, if you can still get your hands on a 
ticket this is not one to miss.

To book tickets for West Bromwich Operatic Society's production of Ghost The Musical, which runs until 16 May click here, or call the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre's box office on 01902 429 212.

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