'Dark Tales in Winter' - Writer's Development Programme

Dark Tales in Winter is the Arena Theatre’s annual festive performance in partnership with Beautiful Shadows Theatre Company. Adapted by Matt Beames and Hannah Torrance who are two contemporary playwrights, Dark Tales in Winter brings two classic Victorian ghost stories to the stage, brought to life by two talented performers for an evening of entertainment at Christmas time.

In line with the inclusive policy of the Arena Theatre, at least one Dark Tales in Winter performance is audio described and BSL-interpreted, ensuring they are accessible to all.

Since 2019, the Arena Theatre and Beautiful Shadows have adapted the following ghost stories for the stage:

2019

The Signal-Man by Charles Dickens

The Open Door by Charlotte Riddell

2021

The Shadow by E. Nesbit

The Black Cat by Edgar Allan Poe

2022

Lost Hearts by M. R. James

In the Séance Room by Lettice Galbraith

2023

Carnivorine by Lucy H. Hooper

The Body Snatcher by Robert Louis Stevenson