Toowoomba’s Empire Theatre to host first performances of The Woman in Black play Australian tour

Tickets are already running out for the first Australian performances of one of the UK’s longest-running plays at the Empire Theatre, starring top actors John Waters and Daniel MacPherson.

The Australian stage production of UK play The Woman in Black, starring John Waters and Daniel MacPherson, will kick off at the Empire Theatre in Toowoomba on April 27.

One of the UK’s longest-running plays, described as “nerve-shredding” by critics, will kick off its Australian tour at the Empire Theatre this month.

Respected TV actors John Waters (Offspring, Play School, All Saints) and Daniel MacPherson (Neighbours, Foundation) will star in The Woman in Black, a ghostly production based on the 1983 novel of the same name by Susan Hill.

The stage adaptation tells the story of a lawyer who believes he and his family have been cursed by a spectre.

“He engages a sceptical young actor to help him tell his terrifying story and exorcise the fear that grips his soul,” the production’s website said.

“It all begins innocently enough, but then, as they reach further into his darkest memories, they find themselves caught up in a world of eerie marshes and moaning winds.

“Robin Herford’s gripping production is a brilliantly successful study in atmosphere, illusion, and controlled horror.”

This is Waters’ second stint in an Australian production of The Woman in Black, having portrayed the main role in 2006 alongside Brett Tucker.

The play was a smash hit when it debuted in the West End 33 years ago and has become the country’s second-longest production after The Mousetrap.

Toowoomba is not only the first date on the seven-city tour but will also act as the rehearsal space to finalise the numerous technical aspects of the play.

The Australian stage production of UK play The Woman in Black, starring John Waters and Daniel MacPherson, will kick off at the Empire Theatre in Toowoomba on April 27.

“It’s extraordinary to be able to welcome two of Australia’s most acclaimed actors John Waters and Daniel MacPherson to the Empire Theatre stage to perform in The Woman in Black,” Empire Theatre general manager Giuliana Bonel said.

“I am delighted to be supporting Australian theatre producers Woodward Productions and Neil Gooding Productions in bringing this incredible production to life prior to its national tour.”

The Empire Theatre will hold both a matinee and evening on April 27, with tickets almost exhausted.

For more information, head to the Empire Theatre website.