Charles Dickens published his mystery horror story The Signalman in 1866 originally as part of the Mugby Junction collection. Over the years many adaptations of The Signalman have been produced and brought to The Stage, Television and Radio.

The signalman’s work is a solitary job in a signal-box in a deep cutting near a tunnel entrance on a remote stretch of the railway line. Chris Walker casts a solitary shadow as he takes on his duties at the crossing. Haunted by the past he is determined to make sure every train passes through safely.

The Traveller played by John Burton stumbles across the signalman’s box on a late-night walk. The gentleman is visiting on a walking holiday and isn’t fully aware of the train accident that has left the trauma instilled in The Signalman’s memory.

It’s an unlikely friendship, yet one that acts as the narrative for the story. Set over two nights the stranger appears to encourage the Signalman to open up about his past more than anyone else in the village has. The Traveller learns from the Innkeeper (Bruce Chatten) that The Signalman is a quiet recluse who is rarely seen outside work.

The star of the show belongs to the atmospheric, eerie stage by director and creator Michael Lunney. Attention to detail inside the Signalman’s box offers an authentic insight into what a Signalman would have to hand during his shift. A teapot and mugs is essential along with books to educate himself and the crucifix to protect himself from spirits.

Bob Hodges lighting designer and music by Lynette Webb add the finishing touches to the stage in bringing the sights and sound of the Steam locomotives to life across the stage.

Accidents happen all the time. The Signalman offers the audience an insight into how those involved can be affected and the lasting impact they have. Although the play dates back to 1866, themes around trauma and regret are still current and the play is almost timeless and could be placed in other situations where safety didn’t work out as it should have and people died.

For more information about The Signalman at Salisbury Playhouse and the rest of the tour.

Five Stars.

Photos courtesy of Harrogate Theatre.

https://www.wiltshirecreative.co.uk/events/the-signalman

TOUR DATES AUTUMN 2025

Weds 27th to Sat 30th August ….. Malvern Theatres

Tues 2nd to Sat 6th September ….. Harrogate Theatre

Tues 9th to Sat 13th September ….. Devonshire Park Theatre Eastbourne

Mon 15th to Sat 20th September ….. Salisbury Playhouse

Tues 23rd to Sat 27th September ….. Windsor Theatre Royal

Thurs 23rd to Sat 25th October ….. Floral Pavilion New Brighton

Tues 28th October to Sat 1st November ….. Theatr Clwyd Mold

Tues 4th to Sat 8th November ….. Darlington Hippodrome

Thurs 13th to Sat 15th November ….. Jersey Opera House

TOUR DATES SPRING 2026

Tues 27th – Sat 31st January ….. Derby Theatre

Tues 3rd – Sat 7th February ….. Chester Storyhouse

Thurs 26th to Sat 28th February ….. Palace Theatre, Southend-on-Sea

Tues 3rd to Sat 7th March ….. Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Guildford

Thurs 26th to Sat 28th March ….. Wolverhampton Grand Theatre.