The live theatre production, The Woman in Black, is set to return to Australian stages this year. This play holds the distinction of being the second longest-running play in West End history, only surpassed by Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap which, funnily enough, is also doing the rounds across Australia for another year in 2024.
Adapted from Susan Hill’s acclaimed ghost story by Stephen Mallatratt, The Woman in Black is a testament to the power of atmosphere, illusion, and controlled horror. The stage adaptation has been lauded for its ingenuity and effectiveness in delivering a gripping narrative. Australian audiences will have the opportunity to witness this spectacular production in Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Melbourne, Canberra, and Newcastle from May to July.
The cast features two esteemed actors in the leading roles, John Waters and Daniel MacPherson.
John Waters, with a career spanning over five decades, is celebrated for his versatile roles in film, television, and theatre. Notable works include Breaker Morant, Rush, All the Rivers Run, and Rake, along with a remarkable 20-year tenure on Play School. His stage accolades include performances in Hair, Godspell, Jesus Christ Superstar, and The Rocky Horror Show. Waters is also recognized for his musical talent, particularly through his one-man show Looking Through a Glass Onion. He previously starred in the Australian production of The Woman in Black in 2006.
Daniel MacPherson, with a career spanning over 25 years, has made significant contributions to film, television, and theatre internationally. Rising to fame on Neighbours, MacPherson’s career includes notable roles in The Bill, Strike Back, APB, The Shannara Chronicles, and Foundation. His film credits extend to Poker Face, A Wrinkle In Time, and science fiction films like The Osiris Child and Infini. In Australian television, he has led in City Homicide and Wild Boys, and hosted Dancing with the Stars. His recent stage appearance was in 2:22 – A Ghost Story in Melbourne, and he will soon appear in the feature film Land of Bad alongside Russell Crowe.
Producer Alex Woodward expressed excitement about bringing this production back to Australia, sharing:
I first saw The Woman in Black in 2020 and knew I had to bring it back to Australia. It’s such an incredible gripping show that is so spellbinding, it has you on the edge of your seat for two hours. When it came to casting we knew it was perfect to ask theatre royalty John Waters to reprise his role he debuted in Australia more than 15 years ago. Daniel was also a natural choice for his incredible ability, charm and charisma.
Susan Hill’s novel, The Woman in Black, written in 1983, has secured its place as a seminal work in the gothic genre. The story unfolds through the first-person narration of Arthur Kipps, a young solicitor haunted by his experiences at Eel Marsh House. The novel weaves elements of horror and mystery, drawing readers into the enigmatic world of Crythin Gifford and the unnerving encounters with the spectral Woman in Black.
So where and when can you see The Woman in Black during its 2024 Australian tour? Consult the guide below!
| Venue | Season | Performance Times | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Playhouse, QPAC, Brisbane | From 1 May | Tues-Thurs 7:00pm, Fri-Sat 7:30pm, Wed & Thurs 1pm, Sat 2pm | From $55.00 (Transaction fees apply) |
| Dunstan Playhouse, Adelaide Festival Centre | From 15 May | Tues-Thurs 7:00pm, Fri-Sat 7:30pm, Wed or Thurs 1pm, Sat 2pm, Sun 1 & 6pm | From $55.00 (Transaction fees apply) |
| His Majesty’s Theatre, Perth | From 30 May | Tues-Thurs 7pm, Fri-Sat 7:30pm, Wed or Thurs 1pm, Sat 2pm, Sun 1 & 6pm | From $59.00 (Transaction fees apply) |
| Athenaeum Theatre, Melbourne | From 14 June | Tues-Thurs 7:00pm, Fri-Sat 7:30pm, Wed or Thurs or Fri 1pm, Sat 2pm, Sun 1 & 6pm (schedule varies each week) | From $55.00 (Transaction fees apply) |
| Canberra Theatre Centre, Canberra | From 9 July | Tues-Thurs 7:00pm, Fri-Sat 7:30pm, Wed 1pm, Sat 2pm, Sun 1pm | From $55.00 (Transaction fees apply) |
| Civic Theatre, Newcastle | From 23 July | Tues-Thurs 7:00pm, Fri-Sat 7:30pm, Wed 1pm, Sat 2pm, Sun 1pm | From $55.00 (Transaction fees apply) |
For more information on how to pick tickets at each venue, visit the show’s official website.
