Inspector Morse: House of Ghosts – Newcastle Theatre Royal

Based on the characters by Colin Dexter

Writer: Alma Cullen

Director: Anthony Banks

When a murder happens in front of you who better to solve it than the iconic Detective Inspector Morse. There’s a murder to be solved this week at the Theatre Royal Newcastle and Morse (Tom Chambers) just happens to be a member of the audience.

Inspector Morse: House of Ghosts is the play especially written for the stage by Alma Cullen. The original TV series was written by Colin Dexter. He created the iconic characters Morse, who was so well portrayed by the late John Thaw, and his sidekick Lewis (Kevin Whatley). Together they were a formidable team and it was hard to imagine anyone else in these roles. Tom Chambers steps into the role admirably in tonight’s play, as does Tachia Newall as Lewis. There is great contrast between the two characters and a wonderful rapport.

The setting is mainly backstage of a theatre in Oxford but there are lots of short scenes created seamlessly. The sets (Colin Richmond) and lighting (Lizzie Powell) together have created an intriguing visual spectacle throughout. The scene in the church was particularly notable. The simple lighting of the stained glass window together with the more subdued lighting created a cavernous, atmospheric effect. Also simple but effective was the scene by the river with just one lit backdrop of foliage creating an outdoor effect. This team deserve 5 stars for the imaginative, efficient set changes. Everything was so slick and simple which created interest throughout.

As Hamlet is being performed, when the play begins, this play becomes a ‘play within a play’ adding an extra element of intrigue. The sword fight scene in Hamlet for example brings an added element of contrast and acts as a foil against the more static scenes of the main play.

The ensemble cast work well together with a strong performance by Jason Done (Lawrence) as the over-demanding and slightly unsavoury director of the company. Theresa Banham (Ellen) creates a steady, gentle rapport with Morse in their awkwardness as they lead us into wondering whether they will or they won’t pursue a romantic relationship. Charlotte Randle (Verity) is an intriguing character as she sweeps across the stage gossiping and creating suspicion.

This play does not have the most gripping storyline but it does keep you guessing. There are many twists and turns and as it progresses we learn much about the past lives of all the characters. Will the past lives of the 1960’s come to haunt them in the 1980’s? All will be revealed as the play draws to a close.

All those enthusiasts of Morse will not be disappointed in this play and those who are fans of Tom Chambers will delight in seeing him in this iconic role.

An enjoyable evening of theatre awaits you at the Theatre Royal and always a warm welcome.

Runs until Saturday 7th February 2026, before continuing on tour