The Woman in Black – Alhambra Theatre, Bradford

Robin Herford, the director of this week's show, wrote an illuminating article on The Woman in Black, originally a novel by Susan Hill and now adapted as a play by Scarborough Joseph Theatre former artistic director, Stephen Mallatratt.

This was a good idea, given what a theatre performance can offer – sound and lighting for example – beyond the pages of a book.

However, imagination is equally required in both areas and that was in rather shorter supply in Bradford.

Astonishingly the play has been running in a variety of London theatres for a quarter of a century and is now on its national tour.

Requiring only two male actors – here Malcolm Jones and Matt Conner a generation apart – on a rundown interior stage setting has been enough to keep London's countless theatre-goers indefinitely entertained at very little cost.

This week's run got off to an encouraging start with a very attentive audience, certainly in the front stalls.

Screams from the back and muffled footsteps from rocking chairs on stage there were a-plenty.

However the queen of thrillers Ruth Rendell, who sadly died recently and described Susan Hill's novels as "stunning", would probably have thought home was still the best place to be.

Runs until May 30. Tickets available on 01274 432000.

John Pettitt