Ghostly tales from
Shock Horror’s theatres
by Jess Rooney
As Shock Horror: A Ghost Story embarks on its next tour this Autumn, it's not just audiences who will feel the chill of fear; the venues themselves have their own eerie tales to tell.
I have been speaking to theatre staff at Watford Palace Theatre, Swansea Grand, and Theatre Royal Windsor about the things that go bump in the night…
Watford Palace Theatre
Originally opening its doors in 1908 as a music hall, the theatre is said to be home to a ghostly presence known as "Aggie."
Workmen have reported hearing footsteps on the stage, only to find no one there. Curtains part as if to allow an unseen performer to pass…
An usher even once saw a figure walking along the back of the gallery, who then proceeded to leap over the barriers! Backstage, the eerie encounters continue. Staff often sense a presence, accompanied by the sound of footsteps that always stop at a specific dressing room door. This particular room is known for its icy chill. There are rumours that Aggie might be a former stagehand, a follow spot operator who tragically fell from the gallery, or perhaps a dresser who met a similar fate…
Swansea Grand Theatre
Swansea Grand Theatre, opened in 1897 by the legendary opera singer Dame Adeline Patti, has hosted a multitude of stars, including Anthony Hopkins and Richard Burton.
However, the most enduring performer of them all is an actress known as “Jenny”.
Clad in white, Jenny is believed to have graced the stage over a century ago. The story goes that she was an actress who performed at the Grand shortly before setting sail on the Titanic's doomed maiden voyage. For over 100 years, her ghostly figure has been seen treading the boards; forever linked to the theatre she once loved.
Some say she specifically haunts the left hand side of the Grand Circle. But wherever she goes, she always leaves a lingering smell of violets.
Theatre Royal Windsor
The current building is the second theatre to stand on this site and opened in 1910; it was a replacement for the previous theatre which was built in 1815 and burnt down in 1908. Let us tell you the story of Charlotte, who is said to have died in the fire that swept through the theatre that year.
Legend has it that the blaze began in the costume department, and Charlotte, the keyholder’s daughter, was trapped in the flames. Although there are no official records of any fatalities from that fire, many believe Charlotte’s death went unrecorded. Her presence, however, is hard to ignore. Pins have been seen falling from midair, lights flicker mysteriously during fire safety checks, and objects often disappear.
Are you a believer?
There’s no denying that there’s something rather exciting about the prospect of a haunted theatre. This year’s venues for Shock Horror are full of atmosphere and history; perfect for a spooky ghost story. We’d love to see you there. If you’re feeling brave enough…