Taking yet another beloved movie of yesterday and transforming it into a big stage production, Ghost the Musical is certainly different than most. Though the storyline is captivating, as most know, it’s the show’s jaw-dropping special effects that really grab one’s attention. Plenty of illusions and jumbo screen visuals are certain to mesmerize keeping the focus from the production’s on and off song numbers.
The story really begins after Sam Wheat is unexpectedly killed during a mugging after an evening of theatre. Sam’s spirit – or ghost – is caught between worlds where he finds himself living amongst the life he knew. It soon becomes apparent that Sam’s purpose is to bring his killer to justice and with the help of psychic Oda Mae Brown, who is able to actually hear him, he puts his plan into action.
There are plenty of great performances in this show and Steven Grant Douglas as Sam Wheat tops the list with both powerful acting and his ability to carry a tune. Katie Postotnik also turns it up a notch playing Sam’s heartbroken lover, Molly Jensen. And though plenty of kudos could be thrown around for more strong performances, one of the most entertaining to watch was that of Brandon Curry who played the angry and paranoid Subway Ghost.
Ghost the Musical has plenty of song and dance numbers, but as mentioned earlier, some hit and some miss. There are a couple of variations of the film’s classic theme song “Unchained Melody” that are thoroughly enjoyable and are among the few better numbers, but as pleasurable as this show is, you’re probably not going to see it for its music.
But make no mistake about it, this is a show that will truly captivate.
Ghost the Musical is playing at the Oriental Theater located at 24 W Randolph in downtown Chicago through January 19th. For tickets and more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.
