The first UK tour of the hit supernatural thriller, 2:22 – A Ghost Story, is on stage at the Theatre Royal Bath, appearing from Friday 1^st September to Saturday 9^th September, starring Joe Absolom (A Confession, Doc Martin), Charlene Boyd (Mayflies, River City), Nathaniel Curtis (It’s a Sin, The Witcher) and Louisa Lytton (EastEnders, The Bill).

Louisa Lytton, who plays the role of Jenny, is best known on television as Ruby Allen in BBC’s EastEnders, first appearing in 2005 and 2006, before returning to the much-loved series from 2018 to 2021. Her television credits also include playing Michelle in the ITV series Edge of Heaven, PC Beth Green in The Bill and guest roles in Murdoch Mysteries, Casualty and Identity. Her stage credits include the roles of Rizzo in Grease and Debs in Boogie Nights on UK tour and, for the British Shakespeare Company, the roles of Beatrice in Much Ado About Nothing and Hermia in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Louisa was the youngest ever contestant to take part in BBC1’s Strictly Come Dancing when she reached the finals in the fourth series.

Can you tell us a bit about 2:22 A Ghost Story?

2:22 is ultimately a ghost story set in one location in a newly renovated house in London. It’s a thrilling play that revolves around two couples at a dinner party – a married couple called Jenny and Sam who have a new-born baby, and a new couple called Ben and Lauren. As the night unravels, the show delves into beliefs, hope and the supernatural world. 

How did you become involved in the show?

I had an initial meeting with the casting director and director back in February. I was in talks for quite a while as casting for this show is a bit like a jigsaw puzzle with only four actors but was delighted when I got offered the part not too long ago.

What attracted you to this play?

I was drawn to the role of Jenny from the moment I first read the play. She’s such an interesting character with so many layers. It’s such a heightened, emotional role for me to play as I also recently became a mum and there was so much I could relate to. I was also drawn to the play as it’s a ghost story and a thriller which is a genre I’ve never done before. I was excited to do something outside of my comfort zone and the script is amazing.

How do you prepare for the role of Jenny? 

There’s a lot of preparation needed for this role because Jenny is on stage for the entire time and does not sit still for the whole two hours. When it comes to researching being a new mum, I definitely have that covered! I hope that I can bring a lot to the character and draw on my own experiences.

Do you believe in ghosts? Have you had any supernatural experiences?

Yes, I do. I definitely believe in life after death and believe that there are spirits on this earth. I’ve had quite a few experiences from a young age. Even today, my husband had gone out for a walk and I was on my own with my little girl. I then heard the door open and someone come in but went to check and no one was there.

Are you easily scared? What scares you?

I am very easily scared so it’ll be quite interesting when I’m on stage in the pitch black telling a ghost story!

What will audiences love the most about the show?

I think as an audience member, you really do get involved with the suspense and the tension of the show, so it’s quite interactive in that sense. It’s also really funny and you can take a lot away from this play because, ultimately, we’re looking at relationships and people’s viewpoints and beliefs. It definitely appeals to a wide audience as everyone has an opinion on this subject matter.

What do you like best about heading on tour? 

I love playing different theatres around the country and seeing how different all the audiences are in different cities. And I love theatre. It’s my favourite thing to do in the whole world so I’m very excited to be back on stage.  

Anything else you’d like to add?

I’m just really excited and grateful for the opportunity. Jenny is such a great role and the show has had some incredible people involved from Sophia Bush to Lily Allen and Mandip Gill. I’m looking forward to doing my own take on the role and to seeing audiences across the UK. 

The first UK tour of the West End hit 2:22 – A Ghost Story opens at the Theatre Royal Bath appearing from Friday 1^st to Saturday 9^th September. To buy tickets contact the Theatre Royal Bath Box Office on 01225 448844 or visit theatreroyal.org.uk

Photo credit:  Helen Murray