Ghost the Musical at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

I guess the clue is in the title – Ghost. Any show about the supernatural is obviously going to be a technical minefield for the backstage crew, but just how do they go about creating the magic of the love between a couple when his untimely death rips them apart and still retain the enchantment?

How do you make a guy walk through walls and doors? How does the villain go to hell?

When Ghost the Musical arrives at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre for its fortnight run in the first week of June, no less than10 articulated lorries will roll up with props, costumes, wigs, lighting and sound, not to mention a 21 tonne "Mother Truss" from which all the scenery is suspended, as well as seven automated LED video walls, five miles of cable and 86 intelligent lights.

The crew of at least 110 engineers, electricians, riggers, costume, make up and wig staff, designers and production supervisors will work in shifts for over 96 hours to set up the show in the Wolverhampton venue.

Described as probably the most technically complex production to ever tour the UK, Ghost boasts no less than 10 illusion sequences, designed by Paul Kieve, the guy behind many of the magic props and special effects in the Harry Potter films.

Ghost has 17 computers which control the scenery, lighting, sound and even the orchestra. As the Musical Director moves his baton to conduct the musicians, he also cues everything else. It is amazing.

Every prop is completely authentic, even down the real American candy in the vending machine on stage. The attention to detail is second to none with every available item being imported from the USA, including furniture and paper props.

Add to that 65 quick costume changes, the fastest of which is just sex seconds (imagine that!), 58 wig changes, 217 costumes and 112 pairs of shoes I think you will agree Ghost is going to be something very special.

l Ghost the Musical runs at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from June 4-15 inclusive.