Berkeley Repertory Theatre opened its latest production of A Ghost Story, an eerie and visually stunning reimagining of the classic tale by playwright James Duncan. This revival has captivated audiences with its haunting atmosphere and thought-provoking exploration of love, loss, and the supernatural. The play, which initially premiered over a decade ago, has been reworked for a modern audience, bringing new depth to its ghostly narrative and resonating with themes of memory and grief.
The production is directed by renowned theatre director Emma Sullivan, known for her innovative use of technology and immersive storytelling. Sullivan, who has been a fixture in the Bay Area’s theatre scene for years, brings a fresh lens to Duncan’s script, amplifying the emotional intensity of the characters while still respecting the original ghost story at its core. Sullivan’s vision for A Ghost Story features a blend of traditional stagecraft with modern digital projections, creating a hauntingly surreal environment that blurs the lines between the living and the dead.
Key players in the cast include veteran actor Chris Samuels, whose portrayal of the ghostly protagonist, Marcus, has been lauded for its vulnerability and haunting intensity. Samuels, a long-time member of the Berkeley Rep company, brings a level of emotional depth to Marcus that adds a new layer of complexity to the character’s anguish and longing. Opposite him is newcomer Julia Campos, playing the role of Evelyn, a woman struggling to connect with her deceased husband’s spirit. Campos’s performance has been praised for its nuanced portrayal of grief and her compelling chemistry with Samuels.
The play is set in a beautifully designed, minimalist space that evokes a sense of timelessness. The set design, led by Olivia Torres, is one of the most remarkable aspects of the production. Torres has crafted a world where reality and the supernatural seem to coexist, using light, shadow, and projections to bring the ghostly world of Marcus and Evelyn to life. The haunting visuals, combined with the eerie soundscapes created by composer Jason Lee, enhance the ghost story’s emotional and atmospheric weight.
Audience members at the opening night were taken on an emotional journey that was both spine-chilling and deeply moving. The play’s ability to weave suspense with profound emotional resonance has struck a chord with many. The night ended with a standing ovation, as viewers applauded the cast and crew for their bold reimagining of a classic ghost story.
The Ghost Story continues to run at the Berkeley Repertory Theatre until the end of the month, offering audiences a chance to experience one of the most anticipated productions of the fall season in the Bay Area.
