Penned by UK writers Jeremy Dyson (The League of Gentleman) and Andy Nyman, the show was originally produced in England and is promoted as a “truly terrifying theatrical experience that will make you laugh and scream in equal measures”.

Director Peter J Snee is reluctant to give away too much of the plot, saying that keeping audiences in the dark adds to the thrill and excitement of the show.

“I think that part of the magic of the show is in the unexpected, and if you know when the jumps are coming, it is not as scary,” he tells InDaily.

However, he says Ghost Stories – which was well received by both critics and audiences during a season at the Sydney Opera House last year – revolves around the issue of whether ghosts exist in the world of the living. And if they do, what happens if they try to talk to you?

Whereas horror films generally use jump cuts and sharp editing techniques to surprise viewers, Snee says the play relies on a good cast and crew that know how to manipulate the audience.

“Horror is rooted in biology; it is heart-pounding that can put people in a fight or flight mode.

“Horror is so similar to comedy. To hold the audience in a moment of suspense, all you need is one person to invigorate the audience.

“But at the same time, people don’t want to be that one guy who laughs or screams while everyone else is quiet.”

So does Snee believe in ghosts himself? He admits he’s skeptical about the idea, adding that there has turned out to be a logical explanation for most of his weird or creepy experiences.

“I have never had a supernatural experience myself; most of the time weird things I’ve seen have proof.

“Still, I am open all the time if a ghost wants to say hello.”

Ghost Stories’ life may extend beyond the stage, with Snee saying the writers are already working on a film version.

Ghost Stories will be showing at Her Majesty’s Theatre from July 21 to 23.