The Kenton Theatre, located in Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, is one of the oldest working theatres in the UK, dating back to 1805. This historic venue has witnessed over two centuries of performances and has accumulated its fair share of ghostly tales along the way.

One of the most persistent ghost stories associated with the Kenton Theatre involves the spirit of a former actress named Mary Blandy. In 1752, Mary was hanged for poisoning her father, and her restless spirit is said to have taken up residence in the theatre. Staff and visitors have reported sightings of a woman in period costume, believed to be Mary, wandering the corridors and dressing rooms.

Another ghostly presence said to haunt the Kenton is that of a young boy. Witnesses have described seeing a child-like figure darting between the seats in the auditorium, only to vanish when approached. Some speculate that this could be the spirit of a child who died during the theatre’s early years.

The theatre’s backstage area is also known for its paranormal activity. Actors and crew members have reported feeling sudden cold spots, hearing unexplained footsteps, and experiencing the sensation of being watched when alone in the dressing rooms. Props and costumes have allegedly been moved or misplaced without explanation, leading some to believe that mischievous spirits are at play.

During late-night rehearsals, performers have reported hearing disembodied whispers and seeing shadowy figures in their peripheral vision. Some have even claimed to feel an unseen presence brushing past them on the narrow staircases leading to the upper levels of the theatre.