Ghost Theatre: Mat Osman

This is a marvelously original, magical and powerful book. Vividly set in Early Modern London (the evocation of this place, using all senses is one of the best aspects of the book) it tells of  tow central characters, Shay and Nonesuch who are and become, involved in the world of theatre – although it is not just about that. Shay, intriguingly, initially depicted as hovering between genders, as least as far as perceived by others, being someone who seems to have a mystical connection and power to communicate with birds. This is intriguingly dealt with and does not fall into the trap of sentimental nature mysticism, which would be too easy to do. It dovetails well with the theatrical setting and ideas and there is great originality in the concept of site-specific performances, which is one of the main dramatic engines of the novel. The evocation of the theatrical world is vividly and accurately shown; as is the sense of what it could have been like to live in the urban environment that was London at that time.

However, I did feel that the section, about two-thirds of the way through, where the action moves out of London caused a loss of dramatic tension and involvement. I am not sure that it was actually needed, thematically and dramatically as the location did not seem to be as centrally necessary as that of London, around which, (particularly as far as mood and atmosphere is concerned), was the dramatic core of this vividly-realised world of the novel.

However, when  we return to London for the thrilling and emotion ally dramatic and convincing climax, all becomes well again, with an ending that is as powerful as it is emotion ally and dramatically effective.

A marvelously original and vivid piece of work.