Ghost the Musical opened to a standing ovation at Southampton's Mayflower Theatre on Tuesday night.

I don't think there were many fans of the 1990 Academy Award winning film, Ghost, calling for it to be reinterpreted into a musical on the stage, yet somehow it exudes the charm of the hit movie and takes fans on a rewarding emotional journey.

Following on from the original film that starred Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore, and Whoopi Goldberg – Ghost the Musical opened in the West End in 2011 before transferring to Broadway.

14 years later it's made its way to Southampton and theatre goers are sure not to be left disappointed.

Accessible to both fans of the film (the stage production includes the iconic pottery scene) and the minority who have yet to see it, Ghost the Musical boldly follows the same narrative as ambitious couple, Sam Wheat (played by Josh St Clair) and Molly Jenson (Rebekah Lowings) press on with their budding careers having moved into a new apartment together.

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Josh St Clair and Rebekah Lowings in Ghost the Musical (Image: Alastair Muir) However, things take a fatal turn when Sam is murdered in front of Molly and his spirit is left to wander the world, uncover the truth behind his murder, and protect his loved one from danger.

The two leads are fantastic with their dynamic chemistry and ability to seamlessly move from drama into song, perfectly selling the most impactful moments of the story.

A highlight of the show – it would be unfair to say she steals the show given the quality of the production – is Jacqui Dubois as Oda Mae Brown.

From the moment she bounces onto the stage in the uplifting song – 'Are you a believer?’ – she leaves the audience hanging on her every word and expression.

James Mateo-Salt also finds the right balance between friend and foe – and must have known he'd delivered the goods after being booed during the curtain call, that saw the cast gain a standing ovation at Ghost the Musical's opening night at Mayflower Theatre.

Ghost the Musical will live long in the memory for all those that have seen it.

"It's amazing, Molly. The love inside, you take it with you."

The production runs from Tuesday, February 12, until Saturday, February 15.