I vividly remember the first time I watched Ghostbusters.
Popping open that VHS cover, sliding the tape into the player, and watching as it disappeared into the mechanical wonderland. It’s a moment that stuck with me. From that point, Ghostbusters became one of my all-time favorite films as a young teen.
So, when I heard the news that Melbourne-based production company The Ghostlight League was bringing their Shakespeare Ghostbusters show to this year’s Adelaide Fringe, I was thrilled. Having previously seen Shakespeare Aliens, I had a good idea of what to expect, and my excitement only grew as I anticipated their latest twist on a beloved classic.
Shakespeare Ghostbusters is exactly what it sounds like: the iconic Ghostbusters story, reimagined as if it were written by William Shakespeare in the 1500s. The result? A hilarious and clever fusion of two iconic worlds. Director Rob Lloyd brings this imaginative show to life with remarkable skill, ensuring that the source material is handled with respect, while still trimming some of the fat to fit the stage format without sacrificing any of the beloved characters or famous lines.
The Ghostlight League is a tight-knit ensemble of eleven incredibly talented individuals, many of whom juggle multiple roles throughout the performance. Rob Lloyd, for instance, not only stars as Ray Stantz but also serves as the director, producer, and production designer. This is a true testament to his versatility. Likewise, Cassandra Hart’s contributions are equally impressive. She not only portrays multiple characters but also serves as the co-producer, production designer, and costume designer. This blend of creative talent elevates the entire production.
One standout performance came from Corey Glamuzina, who took on an impressive six roles. His portrayal of Louis Tully was particularly memorable, capturing the character’s eccentricities with spot-on comedic timing. Seon Williams also shines brightly, displaying impeccable comedic timing and dynamic stage presence as she played several characters while thoroughly keeping the audience laughing throughout the show.
In terms of set design, The Ghostlight League have taken a very minimalistic approach, with a blank stage which was brought to life with creative lighting effects from Patrick Slee. Although I wish there was just a little bit more substance to the set, I understand the practical constraints that come with touring a show. However, the focus on lighting allowed other elements, like the costumes and puppets, to shine.
Speaking of costumes, the designs were impeccable, taking the iconic Ghostbusters look and giving it a Shakespearean spin. I loved the classy touch of having vests with the Ghostbusters logo and character names. The puppet work was also a standout, with the Slimer puppet being an undeniable highlight of the show.
The final cherry on top and an element that really elevates the production is the sound design by Sandro Falce. The atmospheric sound effects, from ghostly whispers to eerie rumbles, helped to build the tension and create a rich environment that immersed the audience in the world of Shakespeare’s Ghostbusters. Between scenes and during set changes, the show featured classical style covers of popular songs, adding an extra layer of charm and humour. These unexpected renditions perfectly bridged the gap between the 1500s and the 1980s, amplifying the comedy and maintaining the audience’s energy throughout the performance.
All in all, Shakespeare Ghostbusters is a delightful surprise. As a long-time fan of the original Ghostbusters, I was a little concerned about how this concept would adapt the original content, but it was an absolute blast. Shakespeare Ghostbusters blends cheeky humor, smart pop culture references, and just the right amount of audience participation.
Whether you’re a Shakespearean aficionado, a Ghostbusters fan, or both, I highly recommend Shakespeare Ghostbusters for a great night of laughs and creative brilliance.
The Ghostlight League’s Shakespeare Ghostbusters Adelaide Fringe season is currently on at Main Theatre at Goodwood Theatre and Studios and runs until March 16th.
For more information and ticketing, visit:
https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/shakespeare-ghostbusters-af2025
https://www.instagram.com/theghostlightleague
Photography supplied.
