FINAL ACT at The rosemary theatre 25 – 28 October 2026
‘a powerful final scene’ ★★★★
A midnight lock-in at a supposedly haunted theatre is an unusual challenge for someone who doesn’t believe in ghosts. In Final Act, written by Jade Sanchez and Barry J. Wale, late-night radio presenter Julia Chadwick-Baxter arrives determined to debunk the supernatural claims, only to find her own beliefs put to the test.
The play is not just about ghosts; it also explores grief and how difficult it can be to let go of someone you love. It mixes humour with horror and more emotional moments, keeping the story engaging even when the atmosphere takes a darker turn.
Each character has their own personality and backstory, which helps the audience understand their actions and motivations. Although some of their interactions feel similar in tone, their individual stories help set them apart. LilyAnn Green, as Grace Fairchild, is particularly convincing in her portrayal of someone who firmly believes in her ability to see ghosts. She brings a real sense of conviction to the role. Senora DMello also delivers a strong performance as Julia Chadwick-Baxter. Initially rebellious and cunning in her dealings with her colleagues, Julia gradually reveals a more vulnerable side. As the story unfolds, her behaviour begins to make sense in the context of the pain she has been carrying.
The sound design works well, and the lighting helps create the atmosphere, particularly during the more unsettling scenes. Both work well alongside the performances and help bring out the different sides of the story. The most powerful moment comes in the final scene. As a mother, Julia’s struggle to let go of her daughter is particularly moving. The grief she has carried for years has shaped her behaviour, and watching her begin to process that loss brings a sense of emotional release. The scene is both moving and unsettling, making it a memorable conclusion to the story.
The main reservation is the pacing. The production feels a little lengthy in places, and some moments become repetitive. A tighter edit would help maintain momentum and allow the strongest scenes to have an even greater impact.
Overall, Final Act is an enjoyable production that balances humour and horror with more emotional moments. Although it feels a little long in places, the performances and final scene make it worth watching. The play also raises questions about grief, letting go and how people find a way to move forward after losing someone they love.
Final Act
Writers: Jade Sanchez and Barry J. Wale
Directors: Jessica Tabraham and Clara Seitz
Producer: Emma Kerr
Assistant Producer: Jonas Feind
Cast
● Julia Chadwick-Baxter — Senora DMello
● Hannah Blackwell — Sophie Woolley
● Grace Fairchild — LilyAnn Green
● Dr Robert Marwood — Richard Cawte
● Danny DeGroot — Oliver Broad
Creative team
● Stage Manager and Lighting Designer: Flossy Willis
● Sound Designer and Technical Operator: Emma Kerr
Photo credit: Emma Kerr
Reviewer: Amala Johnson is a London-based poet and writer with roots in Kerala, India. Writing in Malayalam and English, she explores human emotions and relationships. Having published a poem in 2023, she is currently working on her poetry collection. Her passion for theatre, including experience in amateur playwriting, directing and acting, shapes her appreciation of storytelling and live performance.
