Ghost the Musical

Palace Theatre, Manchester

Until Saturday

IT'S one of the most iconic films of the 1990s — a story of love, loss and hope.

Ghost the Musical is back on stage in the North West, five years after its world premiere at the Manchester Opera House in 2011.

It tells the story of banker Sam Wheat and artist Molly Jensen whose happiness is shattered when Sam is murdered by friend and corrupt business partner Carl Bruner over a shady business deal.

But with the help of a phony psychic Sam, trapped between this world and the next, tries to communicate with Molly in the hope of saving her from grave danger.

Taking inspiration from the classic movie, producer Bill Kenwright's latest production features an expanded book and new music.

But it is the female lead in the show who has been attracting the attention as Girls Aloud star Sarah Harding takes up the role made famous by actress Demi Moore.

Earlier this month, the 34-year-old was forced to take to Twitter to 'set the record straight' after stepping down halfway through a performance of the musical in Blackpool.

She was accused of being on the verge of a breakdown and slammed by some for a 'shambolic' performance.

Responding to her critics, she explained her absence by writing on Twitter: "Since appearing in (Channel 4 show) The Jump I have been in constant pain with a knee injury, and as anyone who has experienced chronic pain will tell you, it can take a serious toll on your both physically and emotionally."

I've seen Sarah perform several times as part of Girls Aloud, where the fivesome always put on polished, professional performances as part of huge arena shows.

I was intrigued to see what she would deliver and was delighted that, not only did she prove her critics wrong in Manchester on Tuesday evening, she gave a performance that was strong yet tender.

Her rendition of With You was absolutely stunning and I don't mind admitting it made me shed a tear.

Playing the part made famous by Patrick Swayze is former Hollyoaks actor Andy Moss. He is a natural on the stage and puts in a fantastic performance as the powerless spirit.

Sarah and Andy have lovely chemistry as the madly in the love pair while Jacqui Dubois puts in a hilarious turn as dodgy psychic Oda Mae Brown.

Funny, poignant and an emotional rollercoaster performed by a strong cast, Ghost the Musical runs until Saturday.