★★★★
Since its 2021 debut, 2:22: A Ghost Story has become a phenomenon in British theatre. With seven West End seasons, more than thirty productions worldwide, and an ever-changing celebrity cast, the play has gained a stellar reputation and has become a must-see modern ghost story. Now, as the 2025-26 UK tour gathers pace, I finally had the chance to see if the hype, and the horror, lived up to my expectations.
Settling into my seat at the Sunderland Empire last Saturday, I felt a strange mix of anticipation and unease. Whispers of jump-scares and sudden screams filled the auditorium, setting the mood before the lights had even dimmed. That creeping sense of dread is, of course, the hallmark of the creator Danny Robins, best known for the Uncanny podcast. Building a career on unnerving storytelling, here, Robins is in his theatrical prime.
Anna Fleischle’s deceptively ordinary set design does little to soothe my nerves. Her open-plan home set is filled with pristine furniture, contrasting sections of ripped wallpaper and half-painted walls. But it’s the glowing red digital clocks that truly haunt the space, their countdowns towards 2:22am feeling impossible to ignore. Every scene change is punctuated by the same blood-curdling scream and harsh LED glare, jolting the audience back to attention, especially those who are prone to napping in the theatre.
This touring production also brings new intrigue, especially with the casting. Strictly Come Dancing’s Kevin Clifton makes his theatre debut alongside real-life partner, Stacey Dooley, reprising her role from the West End. I was sceptical of the play’s rotating cast concept, which has seen popstars from Lily Allen to Cheryl play the protagonist. Yet, paired with Grant Kilburn and Shvorne Marks, this ensemble gels surprisingly well, turning this play into something sharp and engaging.
The story centres on new parents Jenny (Dooley) and Sam (Clifton). Jenny is convinced their new home is haunted, while Sam, an astronomer and firm sceptic, dismisses her fears as the clunking of faulty pipes and the screeching of foxes. When Sam’s old university friend Lauren (Marks) visits with her new partner Ben (Kilburn), a simple dinner party spirals into a late-night debate, testing the realms of reason with their rantings on the supernatural. Fuelled by alcohol and curiosity, the four agree to stay up and find out whether Jenny’s fears are real.
Dooley shines throughout as Jenny, being a true standout. Rattled and jittery, she balances humour with her immense vulnerability, burdened with sleepless nights, a new baby, and unbridled fear. Clifton’s Sam is witty, combative, and occasionally flamboyant, leaning into his role as the provocateur with his renowned showbiz flair. His interactions with Marks bring an emotional weight and nostalgia, and his bickerings with Ben ground the story and add some needed comic relief. The result is a true ensemble piece, offering an authentic exploration of beliefs and clashes of opinion. From class, religion, and parenthood, every aspect is relatable and powerful.
And then there’s the ending. Without spoiling, the final twist is shocking and disorientating, forcing you to replay every detail in your head for the rest of the day. It’s the kind of reveal that lingers, not because of the jump-scares, but because it makes you reconsider what you thought you knew.
2:22: A Ghost Story more than earns its reputation. What could have been a recycled, typical ghost story feels fresh, energised and enthralling, with sharp writing, committed performances and a gripping atmosphere. If you are looking for a night at the theatre that will leave you laughing, debating, and glancing nervously at the clock, this is it. Just make sure to hold onto your popcorn extra tight as there are many frights in store.
2:22: A Ghost Story is continuing its tour across the UK until 4 July 2026.
Words by Abigail Mableson
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