Henrik Ibsen’s Ghosts has long been a lightning rod for controversy, and in Gary Owen’s bold new adaptation at the Lyric Hammersmith, it’s once again sparking gasps, laughter, and deep discomfort. Running until May 10, this production reimagines the 1881 classic through a contemporary lens, making it as relevant and riveting as ever. Here are five reasons why this modern Ghosts is one of the most talked-about shows in London right now.

1. A Contemporary Reimagining That Hits Hard

Owen’s adaptation transplants Ibsen’s themes of secrecy, guilt, and inherited trauma into a modern-day setting, replacing 19th-century taboos with today’s pressing issues. The original’s focus on venereal disease and religious hypocrisy is updated to explore psychological trauma and the damaging legacies of abuse. The result is a play that feels both timeless and urgently current.

2. Victoria Smurfit and Callum Scott Howells Deliver Tour-De-Force Performances

Victoria Smurfit returns to the stage as Helena, a woman grappling with the haunting legacy of her late husband. Her portrayal is both steely and vulnerable, capturing the complexities of a mother trying to protect her son while confronting her own past. Callum Scott Howells shines as Oz, Helena’s son, bringing a mix of sardonic wit and deep-seated pain to the role. Their dynamic is electric, anchoring the production with emotional depth.

3. Dark Humor Balances the Tragedy

While Ghosts delves into heavy themes, Owen’s script is laced with dark humor that provides moments of relief and sharpens the play’s critique of societal norms. The audience’s reactions—gasps followed by uneasy laughter—highlight the production’s ability to navigate the fine line between comedy and tragedy.

4. A Haunting and Minimalist Set Design

Merle Hensel’s set design is both sleek and symbolic. A minimalist living room with a large glass wall shrouded in mist creates a sense of isolation and foreboding. The looming presence of the deceased patriarch is felt through haunting imagery, reinforcing the play’s themes of inescapable past and hidden truths.

5. A Bold Take That Invites Discussion

This adaptation doesn’t shy away from controversial topics, including intergenerational trauma and the complexities of consent and power dynamics. Some may find the modern elements jarring, but many will welcome the production’s fearless commitment to confronting uncomfortable truths. It’s a play that lingers in the mind and invites rich conversation.

🎟️ Book Your Tickets Now
Ghosts runs at the Lyric Hammersmith until May 10. Tickets start from £10. Secure your seats through the official Lyric Hammersmith website: lyric.co.uk/shows/ghosts

Don’t miss this hauntingly powerful production that brings Ibsen’s classic into the modern age with unflinching honesty and emotional depth.