A HEARTBREAKING horror that has delighted and disturbed audiences for almost 30 years brought a chill to the air last night, for the opening night of creepy classic The Woman in Black.

The Torch Theatre’s modern interior was in turn transformed into a Victorian theatre, misty marshlands and an empty Gothic mansion housing a terrible secret, for this version of Stephen Mallatratt’s much-loved stage play.

Based on the 1983 novella by Susan Hill, the play centres on Arthur Kipps (Ioan Hefin), a quiet, family man haunted by a tale too terrifying to be told around the fireside.

With the help of a chipper young actor (Rhys Meredith), Kipps attempts to clear away the cobwebs - and lay to rest the curse that has stalked him for so many years - by transforming his long-held secret into a play.

Taking on the role of Kipp’s younger self, the actor (Meredith) travels to the market town of Crythin Gifford, tasked with settling the affairs of the late Alice Drablow.

But the tight-lipped locals are largely unwilling to furnish the fledgling solicitor with the real story of Eel Marsh House, and its mysterious reputation.

Helping flesh out the story, the real Kipp (Hefin) ably portrays a host of other characters integral to his time at the haunted house.

But by bringing his story to life, Kipp is made to relive the unsettling events that have left such a scar on his soul.

Blood-curdling screams, a clever choice of sound and visual effects, and an impressive use of the set (everyone will enjoy the 'pony and trap') made for an immersive audience experience.

But thankfully, director Peter Doran stops short of cheap ‘haunted house’ shock tactics, instead following the ‘less is more’ school of thought.

Instead, he builds atmosphere slowly, through subtle dialogue techniques in which what is left unsaid is as important as that which is spoken.

Yes, this is a ghost story, but ultimately it is a tale of incredible sadness and personal loss, and by the end I felt real sympathy for the main characters – both alive and dead.

It’s a shame this play only runs until October 22, as it would have made a great Halloween treat for adults and older teens alike.

But whether you're familiar with the story or not, this latest adaptation is just the trick for a fantastic, freaky night out.

The Woman in Black runs until Saturday, October 22, at 7.30pm, with matinee performances at 2.30pm on Thursday, October 13, Saturday, October 15, Wednesday, October 19, and Thursday, October 20.

The production is recommended for ages 14 years and over.

To book tickets and for further information, contact the Torch Theatre Box Office on 01646 695267 or visit the website www.torchtheatre.co.uk