When a novel is turned into both a top-rated film and a critically acclaimed play - one which enjoyed a lengthy West End run and sells out theatres wherever it goes - then you know that the story must be a good one. The Woman In Black is one such tale - disquieting, sinister and thoroughly gripping, it cannot fail to enthral.

Stephen Mallatratt’s stage adaptation of Susan Hill’s well-loved novel is a triumph. Mallatratt’s inventive, creative and original interpretation of the book sees Mr Kipps (John Mackay) play a multitude of roles while the Actor (Daniel Burke), whom Kipps has engaged to help him relate his story, takes on the role of Kipps himself.

While the first moments of the play are at times light-hearted and humorous, the tone subtly and swiftly changes and the audience is skilfully drawn deeper and deeper into a dark world of dread and fear.

The story centres round the mysterious Eel Marsh House. Connected to the mainland by only a shadowy, narrow causeway, it is the former home of the enigmatic and recently deceased Mrs Drablow. Kipps, a young, keen, London-based lawyer, travels north to attend her funeral and to deal with her estate. This seemingly simple assignment soon turns menacing as Kipps realises that the locals are reluctant to talk about Drablow and her life, and that the house itself is an uncomfortable place which conceals a sinister past.

The genius of this production of The Woman In Black lies in its simplicity. The moody set is sparse and sombre. Though we meet many characters, there are only two actors, and their pithy, quickfire dialogue moves the action on apace. This makes for a most compelling drama; it’s impossible to draw your eyes from the stage, and even the most sceptical of souls would be challenged not to jump out of their skin as the mystery unfolds.

John Mackay and Daniel Burke are perfectly cast as Kipps and the Actor. Skilful and accomplished, their absorbing performances carry the audience on a journey through a disturbing, intense world of curses and secrets. If ever there were a masterclass in creating atmosphere on stage, then surely this is it.

The Woman In Black is currently the second longest-running play in the West End, and its continued success during this current UK tour is not difficult to understand. This is a truly compelling production - scary and suspenseful - and one which will live long in the memory. As evenings in the theatre go, they really don’t get much better than this. 

Five stars

The Woman In Black was reviewed by Rachel Smith on Tuesday 27 January at Birmingham theatre The Alexandra, where it shows until this Saturday 31 January. It then plays Malvern Theatres from Tuesday 31 March - Saturday 4 April.