A NEW adaptation of Charles Dickens’ gothic horror The Signal-Man will premiere in Eastleigh this month.

West Meon Theatre (WMT) is bringing the production to The Point Studio Theatre from May 21 to May 23.

It has been adapted for the stage by emerging Hampshire writer Matt Beames.

The play begins as one of history’s greatest storytellers stumbles upon an isolated signal box while walking one evening. The occupant is a lonely signalman, who is tormented by strange events and phantom visions on the railway line.

This one-man production, directed by Mary Dawson and featuring award-winning actor Mick Keegan, tells of the encounter between the two men and the strange happenings and unnerving revelations that come out of their new friendship. As the eerie tale unfolds, it soon appears that there is only one person who can take action to avoid impending disaster.

For fans of Dickens, The Signal-Man is perhaps one of his darkest ghost stories. The collaboration between WMT and Matt Beames to create a new version for the stage marks a new milestone for the theatre company.

“The Signal-Man is a classic ghost story, and has been adapted for radio, television and the theatre a number of times,” explains Matt Beames.

“But, as far as I know, this is the first time it has been adapted for the stage as a one-man show.

“As a ghost story, there are no real monsters or bad guys. Instead, it is the understated nature of what happens that makes the play so disturbing.”

It is widely believed that the story has some basis in fact. Dickens was involved in a terrible train crash at Staplehurst, Kent, on June 9, 1865, and the experience is said to have had a profound effect on him.

The Signal-Man was published just a year later.

In fact, it is said that he never fully recovered from the accident before his death, five years to the day after the crash.

For director Mary Dawson, this production is further proof that WMT continues to make a name for itself by embarking upon ever more ambitious projects.

“Although we’ve staged productions in professional venues including Winchester’s Theatre Royal, this is the first time we’ve worked so closely with The Point in Eastleigh. It’s been great to work with such a professional team.

“It’s apt that this one-man show is being premiered in the historical railway town of Eastleigh.

“And of course, it’s always exciting to work with new emerging talent. I’m sure Dickens would approve.”

Tickets are available from The Point box office on 023 8065 233 or online at thepointeastleigh.co.uk.