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Theatre Royal, Drury Lane
London's oldest theater is haunted by the Man in Grey—an 18th century nobleman who appears during rehearsals. His skeleton was found in a walled-up passage, dagger in his ribs. When he appears, the show succeeds. Actors pray for his presence.
1663 - Present
London, England
500+ witnesses
Theatre Royal Drury Lane is one of the world’s most haunted theaters.
The History
1663-present:
- Oldest London theater
- Current building 1812
- Four theaters on site
- Rich theatrical history
- Many ghostly residents
The Man in Grey
Most famous ghost:
- 18th century dress
- Tricorn hat
- Grey cloak
- Walks upper circle
- Disappears into wall
The Discovery
1848:
- Workmen found passage
- Walled up for years
- Skeleton inside
- Dagger in ribs
- Grey fabric remains
Good Luck Ghost
Strange tradition:
- His appearance is lucky
- Shows succeed when seen
- Actors hope for sighting
- Appears during rehearsals
- Daytime mostly
Other Ghosts
More spirits:
- Dan Leno (comedian)
- Charles Macklin (actor)
- Joseph Grimaldi (clown)
- Stanley Lupino
- Unidentified woman
Today
Current status:
- Still operating
- Major productions
- Ghost sightings continue
- Part of theater lore
- Beloved haunting