There is no surprise to people who know me that i’m a very big fan of Liverpool-based theatre company Artsgroupie, seeing them progress each year with their well-known productions like "Kitty: Queen of the Washhouse" and "A Portrait of William Roscoe," their next production is set to send shivers down spines this winter with their new adaptation of Charles Dickens' supernatural classic, "The Signalman."

Set in an isolated railway signal box, the story follows a signalman who encounters a ghostly figure, its appearance foretelling impending disaster. As the specter returns for the third time, the signalman must unravel its message to prevent a looming catastrophe.

Regarded as one of the greatest horror stories ever written by Dickens, "The Signalman" expects to grip with its powerful narrative and spine-chilling atmosphere.

The production relies on minimalistic elements - a lantern and two skilled actors - to convey the tale's hair-raising suspense. In my opinion minimalism is powerful in itself and I try to encourage creatives to use simplicity to gripping the audience more.

The tour kicks off at the evocative Engine Room at Metal, Edge Hill Station, before venturing to various locales throughout November. Stops include the picturesque Mansion House, The Reader at Calderstones, the esteemed pub theatre at Salford's The Kings Arms, the historic Liverpool Athenaeum, and the newly minted performance space at The Storey in Lancaster.

Following the success of last year's "Ghost Stories for Xmas," which is slated for a December return, Artsgroupie is thrilled to once again collaborate with the esteemed local writer and director, David Griffiths.

"The Signalman" delves into themes of survivor's guilt and isolation,  in the wake of the recent pandemic. Griffiths emphasizes, "Our inability to control events around us can be more frightening than any ghost, as Dickens knew well. He wrote from experience, a survivor of the Staplehurst railway disaster – events that both inspired and haunted the author."

John Maguire, Creative Director at ArtsGroupie, adds, "Last year, I worked with David on a critically acclaimed production of Orwell’s 1984, and Artsgroupie produced the successful Ghost Stories For Xmas. We are delighted to be once again collaborating on a much-loved classic, playing some new locations, and re-visiting some of our favorite local venues."

Prepare to be gripped, chilled, and transported to the world of "The Signalman" this November as Artsgroupie promises another fantastic experience.

Written by, Christopher Woodward