Synopsis

Arnold Ridley’s play “The Ghost Train” is a classic comedy-thriller that revolves around a group of railway passengers who find themselves stranded at a remote rural station overnight.

The story unfolds as follows: 

A diverse group of passengers, including newlyweds, a married couple, and a few other individuals, are forced to spend the night in the waiting room of an isolated country station. The station master, Saul Hodgkin, warns them about the ghost train—a spectral train that is said to haunt the station and bring death to anyone who sees it. Despite his warnings, the passengers decide to stay, citing the lack of alternative accommodations. 

As the night progresses, the passengers experience a series of eerie and unsettling events. The tension builds as they hear strange noises and see mysterious lights, leading them to believe that the ghost train might be real. The play masterfully combines elements of suspense and humour, keeping the audience on edge while also providing comic relief through the interactions and personalities of the characters. 

The climax of the play reveals the true nature of the ghost train and the reasons behind the strange occurrences at the station. The resolution ties up the mystery in a satisfying and often surprising way, showcasing Ridley’s skill in blending thriller and comedy elements.

The Ghost Train is a comedy-thriller and not a farce. It needs to be played with sincerity and - at certain points - with a degree of seriousness. This is the way that the true comedy of the piece can best be enjoyed, and the rather touching drama that runs through parts of the play can be shown in the most affecting light. As importantly, it's only when the characters (and actors) on stage believe in the perils they are facing that the true horror of the night's events can be seen and believed by the audience.


ALL PLAYING AGES ARE A GUIDANCE

Characters

• MISS BOURNE – 40+ - Medium Role

A stern, spinster type of woman, who adds a touch of humour with her no-nonsense attitude.


• JULIA PRICE – 20+ - Medium Role

An attractive young woman who becomes entangled in the night’s mysterious events.


• ELSIE WINTHROP – 25+ - Large Role

Richard’s wife, who is more sensitive and often caught between her husband’s assertiveness and the group’s growing fear.


• PEGGY MURDOCK – 20+ - Large Role

Charles’s wife, who is nervous and easily frightened by the ghostly tales.


• TEDDIE DEAKIN – 20+ - Large Role

A comedic character who often lightens the mood with his antics and humorous remarks.


• SAUL HODGKIN – 40+ - Medium Role

The station master who warns the passengers about the ghost train.
He is a pivotal character who sets the eerie tone of the play. 

• RICHARD WINTHROP – 28+ - Large Role

A strong-willed and somewhat abrasive man, often taking charge of the situation.


• CHARLES MURDOCK – 22+ - Large Role

A young man who is traveling with his new wife, Peggy.


• JOHN STERLING – 30+ - Medium Role

A doctor who becomes involved in the night's events.


• JACKSON – 18+ - Very Small Role

A police inspector who arrives at the end of the play.