The world premier stage adaptation of Shirley Jackson’s The Haunting of Hill House comes to Theatr Clwyd this month (13-17 Oct).

We sat down with Sián Howard, a familiar face to Theatr Clwyd audiences, to find out all the goings on ahead of her return to Mold.

Tell us about the show, what is it like to be part of it?

It’s been incredibly exciting to be part of this brand-new stage adaptation of Shirley Jackson’s novel, The Haunting of Hill House, beautifully brought to life by the wonderful Stef Smith. What’s been most thrilling for me is the collaboration - between writer, director, producer, actors and all the other creative forces: the composer, the illusionist, the soundscape artist, the lighting team, the projection designer… there are so many elements that work together to tell this story!

What can we expect?

The audience can expect to be absolutely terrified! But I also think they'll be deeply moved, because there are powerful themes - of isolation, the longing to belong and grief.

How are you feeling about returning to Mold and to our new building?

I'm so excited about returning to Mold and seeing and experiencing the wonderful refurbishment that it has undergone. I’ve kept in touch with Kate Wasserberg and others, and I’ve talked to actors who performed there during the refurbishment, but I haven’t been back since it all began. That first day stepping in is going to be absolutely incredible. But my favourite bit of the theatre will remain always the stunningly beautiful view!

What’s your favourite memory of performing at Theatr Clwyd?

I think my favourite memory of performing at Theatr Clwyd has to be my very first show there, so many years ago! I played Violet Bradman in Terry Hands’ production of Blithe Spirit. It was all wrapped up in the experience of working with the great Terry Hands. I came to know and learn so much from him. I love and miss him dearly.

Do you have a favourite Flintshire hangout?

My father was born and brought up in and around Ruthin, so no visit to Theatr Clwyd feels complete without a trip to Ruthin - walking through the marketplace, the church and Llanfair DC church and the very house (Plas Tirion) where my father was born.

Have there been any spooky moments so far whilst rehearsing/on tour?

I wish I could tell you that I've had a spooky moment while rehearsing or performing The Haunting of Hill House, but I haven't - so I’m not going to make one up! What really matters, in the end I suppose, is the atmosphere we create on stage, and that’s where the true magic lies.

The Haunting of Hill House runs at Theatr Clwyd from 13-17 October. For more information, or to book tickets, please click here or call the Box Office on 1352 344101.