Mei Leng Yew’s new play covers a lot of ground with great success. As well as the promised scares, rooted in Chinese folklore, it is a romance, with a young couple moving in together at the very moment one of them becomes possessed. Best of all, alongside its intriguing premise, it is funny.
One twist is that actor Mei Mac takes on the roles of the ‘Girl’ and her lover, creating sweet, gentle moments. Mei also plays her mother, brother and, well, just about everyone in the show. Switching roles during conversations, never losing focus or sacrificing clarity, she gives an awe-inspiring performance, with so many accents I lost count.
Mac is joined by Isabella Wei as the Ghost. This is a different kind of supernatural creature – a spook it’s possible to like! The spectre has sensible ideas about British bread and working for a living. Driven only by desire – sex and food – Wei embodies these passions marvellously. The role develops from scary to sympathetic, creating a powerful dynamic and some surprises.
There’s plenty of drama as the Ghost becomes dangerous. Cheng Keng and Carla Ng’s lighting and sound design are particularly effective. Director Ailin Conant keeps the pace swift, but allows moments of reflection when romance comes to the fore, giving the audience time to increase their affection for the characters.
The Hungry Ghost comes into conflict with modern life, allowing Yew to make observations about the diaspora, parenting, mental health, youth and gay life. The satire around the girl’s partner being a therapist could be expanded. And if some issues are resolved too quickly, that only makes the show sweeter. Yew’s themes are handled lightly. Comedy is the key, producing a piece with a gentle touch that leaves the audience feeling full. Even the ghost ends up satisfied (kind of) and I, for one, am happy for her.
Until 31 October 2026
Photos by Corrine Cumming