Frankie Bridge shows she is more than just a Saturday Girl
The Saturday’s Frankie Bridge (née Sandford) took to the stage in 2:22 A Ghost Story, like a duck to water. She had stage presence that simply cannot be taught. With a killer jaw line, it was like looking at an old Hollywood great, commanding your attention as she waltzed around, knocking back more booze than Patsy in an episode of “Ab Fab”. You would never have imagined that this was Bridge’s acting debut as psychiatrist Lauren in this ghostly masterpiece.
Bridge joined seasoned professional Jaime Winstone who played Jenny, a hysterical first time mother, whose values and beliefs were turned upside down. Jenny’s husband Sam was played brilliantly by understudy Luis Donegan Brown. The character of Sam is the kind of ‘know it all’ you have met at a party that you can imagine punching. Lauren’s partner, builder boyfriend Ben, was skilfully played by Ricky Champ; it would have been easy to play the Essex lad with no light and shade, but Ricky gave a masterful performance and pulled the audience in, taking them on his spiritual journey.
2:.22 is a contemporary ghost story and is somewhat refreshing as it challenges the audience to ask themselves the question, “Do you believe in ghosts?”
The script is strong enough to get you thinking. As a play it would have worked on its own without the flashing lights and screams. For me they detracted from the actors, who were for the most part well-crafted enough to pull you into the terrifying tale and have you at the edge of your seat. Danny Robbins’ script is a tour de force and an actor’s dream (I imagine) getting to work it. 2.22 is not ‘Woman in Black’ or ‘Ghost Story’, both of which I loved. It really does push you to think outside the box, and once you do, it will not disappoint.
2.22 Ghost story tours this fall and is on at the Apollo theatre London till September 17th, 2024.
For tickets and info, CLICK HERE
