The Haunting of Spook Mansion (By Ghosts), at Chapel Off Chapel - 75 minutes

Do you believe in ghosts?

Noted sceptic and author Professor Adrian Chambers (Peter Houghton) most certainly does not?

The 62-year-old has written 14 books on the subject.

At a very poorly attended new book reading and signing, he is waylaid by the only person who turns up, librarian Beth Jackson (Emily Trheny).

Photos by Darren Gill

Although their awkward exchange has Chambers cringing, he certainly takes notice when she offers him half a million dollars to take up a challenge.

All he has to do is to spend the night at what she claims is a haunted mansion.

On his way to this backwater, Chambers encounters Flugel (Ben Russell), the strange proprietor of a local grocery store who is trying to offload potatoes.

Once Chambers enters Spook Mansion and is joined by Beth Jackson, he encounters a series of strange happenings.

Mind you, all of these have been stage managed.

So, what is behind the shenanigans? Well, you will have to buy a ticket to find out.

All I will say is that it appears someone has an axe to grind.

Written by Michael Ward, The Haunting of Spook Mansion (By Ghosts) is a well-acted, fun-filled romp.

Complete with corny humour, the performers take to their roles with gusto.

As Chambers, Peter Houghton is caught up in a sense of self-importance. He sees himself as several steps above Beth Jackson and Flugel.

Emily Trheny transitions Beth Jackson well from tentative to deliberative, expertly handling a ventriloquist role too.

Ben Russell throws himself headlong into the part of a rather bizarre country bumpkin.

I appreciated the detail in the sets by set and costume designer Sarah Tulloch, whether that be the backdrop to the book signing, the grocery store or the haunted house.

With imposing and evocative sound effects by Stephen Gates and redolent lighting design from Jason Bovaird, the play tickles the funny bone.

Director Russell Fletcher keeps the wheels turning throughout, as the Professor gets what is coming to him.

And, I am here to tell you that has everything to do with his back story.

The Haunting of Spook Mansion (By Ghosts) is on at Chapel Off Chapel until 23^rd November, 2025.