THANKS to Mollly Woods for this review! Sorry I forgot to check for it last night, but woke up “haunted” and found it. See you all TONIGHT at the second/last performance, 7pm at Hannah Center. - Jane
The Haunting of Hill House" an Audio Air Force Production.
If you have yet to have the pleasure of attending an Audio Air Force show, get yourself to the Hannah Community Center at 7pm for this one!
A world premier audio event, created with permission from the estate of Shirley Jackson the author of the original 1959 novel of the same name. "The Haunting of Hill House" is the latest of many scripts written by Greater Lansing resident Jon Ritz, who readily gives credit to producer Dave Downing for securing the rights for the material. Ritz goes on to explain that he had been approached by a member of the AAF board, inquiring if he would have interest in writing (another) Audio Theater script, with something spooky in mind. Ritz has been a long time fan of the "Haunting of Hill House" novel, but knew that gaining permission would be a challenge. He didn't take into account the persuasive abilities of Downing. "Dave got it done", Ritz states, and so begins the meticulous, true to original form, psychological thriller "The Haunting of Hill House", adaption for Audio Theater.
The show begins with AAF vetran Jeff Kennedy giving the audience the traditional explanation of what audio theater is and how to allow your imagination to become engaged in the "theater of the mind". Not a traditional theatrical production of actors practicing precise blocking with sets and costuming, but an experience that more deeply connects sound effects and descriptive dialogue to set the audience on a path their imagination creates. These sound effects are known as Foley effects, named after Jack Foley who invented the technique of using everyday objects to create the desired sound effect of an action. Audio technician Hollie Lane beautifully created the effects for this show. The most appreciated moment of Kennedy's speech is coaching the audience through a group count down from five to start the show, with a reminder that two and one are silent. Don't be embarrassed if you accidentally yell out "TWO" all by your lonesome. Someone always does the first time, and it gets a chuckle.
The story of "The Haunting of Hill House" unfolds with Jim Coyer, sitting on stage facing his cast, less of a director and more so a conductor of the macabre.
We learn of a Dr. Montague, who has heard of the supernatural occurrences at Hill House and wishes to write a book of his observations during his stay at Hill House. To assist him, he has invited Eleanor, Theodora, and Luke. The ladies have both had paranormal experiences and Luke is heir to Hill House. The group takes the time to become acquainted with one another and to explore the unique architecture of the house and it's gruesome history. As time passes unusual activities begin. Doors closing, or opening unprompted isn't odd for an old house. But is knocking that becomes increasingly loud? Or the sound of giggling, cackling, shrieking, turned to screams expected? Holding the hand of a friend when afraid of the dark to find they were not in the room at all?
Whether Dr. Montague is delighted to be proven right in his search for supernatural evidence or frightened that he has experienced the proof he was seeking, is undetermined. What we do know is that something is not right at Hill House!
Jeff Kennedy portrays Dr. Montague with the astute airs of a scientific professor. Theodora has a consistent flippant and flighty characterization, played by Rachel Mender. Maddy Smith was impressive as Eleanor. Sounding young and excited to be included in this adventure, her character evolves showing depths of fear, cheery attachment, and withdrawal into herself. Michelle Jackson as Mrs. Montague had facial expressions to match the annoyance and 'take charge attitude' the character felt. Josh Bliss is the heir Luke, a light, joking character. Steve Ledyard as Arthur, on the edge of comic relief.
"The Haunting of Hill House" is the first show I have seen Filonna Thomas in and I look forward to seeing more of her on the stage. She was a delight to behold. She presents the caretaker Mrs. Dudley in a commanding voice. Speaking directly of her role in the maintenance of the house, specifically what tasks she does and WILL NOT DO (much to the bemusement of the guests of the house). Thomas, through only the strength of her tone conveys an 'in the know' demure with a distain for the interlopers of the house.
The production team for "The Haunting of Hill House" created an audience immersion experience that goes beyond the surround sound of speakers, including some effects beyond those of only sound. Creepy, eerie, and suspenseful are some adjectives that come to mind describing this show.
The 2nd and last showing is Saturday October 26th, 7 pm at the Hannah center in East Lansing. Tickets are available online and at the door, general admission of $10 with a run time of just under two hours, including a 10 minute intermission.
Find The Audio Air Force on FB at
https://www.facebook.com/audioairforce?mibextid=ZbWKwL
Or their webpage:
https://audioairforce.com/
Ticket information can be found on the webpage, whereas the FB page will give you an insiders look at rehearsal shenanigans, dramatic theatrical trailers and cast interviews!
The Haunting of Hill House" an Audio Air Force Production.
If you have yet to have the pleasure of attending an Audio Air Force show, get yourself to the Hannah Community Center at 7pm for this one!
A world premier audio event, created with permission from the estate of Shirley Jackson the author of the original 1959 novel of the same name. "The Haunting of Hill House" is the latest of many scripts written by Greater Lansing resident Jon Ritz, who readily gives credit to producer Dave Downing for securing the rights for the material. Ritz goes on to explain that he had been approached by a member of the AAF board, inquiring if he would have interest in writing (another) Audio Theater script, with something spooky in mind. Ritz has been a long time fan of the "Haunting of Hill House" novel, but knew that gaining permission would be a challenge. He didn't take into account the persuasive abilities of Downing. "Dave got it done", Ritz states, and so begins the meticulous, true to original form, psychological thriller "The Haunting of Hill House", adaption for Audio Theater.
The show begins with AAF vetran Jeff Kennedy giving the audience the traditional explanation of what audio theater is and how to allow your imagination to become engaged in the "theater of the mind". Not a traditional theatrical production of actors practicing precise blocking with sets and costuming, but an experience that more deeply connects sound effects and descriptive dialogue to set the audience on a path their imagination creates. These sound effects are known as Foley effects, named after Jack Foley who invented the technique of using everyday objects to create the desired sound effect of an action. Audio technician Hollie Lane beautifully created the effects for this show. The most appreciated moment of Kennedy's speech is coaching the audience through a group count down from five to start the show, with a reminder that two and one are silent. Don't be embarrassed if you accidentally yell out "TWO" all by your lonesome. Someone always does the first time, and it gets a chuckle.
The story of "The Haunting of Hill House" unfolds with Jim Coyer, sitting on stage facing his cast, less of a director and more so a conductor of the macabre.
We learn of a Dr. Montague, who has heard of the supernatural occurrences at Hill House and wishes to write a book of his observations during his stay at Hill House. To assist him, he has invited Eleanor, Theodora, and Luke. The ladies have both had paranormal experiences and Luke is heir to Hill House. The group takes the time to become acquainted with one another and to explore the unique architecture of the house and it's gruesome history. As time passes unusual activities begin. Doors closing, or opening unprompted isn't odd for an old house. But is knocking that becomes increasingly loud? Or the sound of giggling, cackling, shrieking, turned to screams expected? Holding the hand of a friend when afraid of the dark to find they were not in the room at all?
Whether Dr. Montague is delighted to be proven right in his search for supernatural evidence or frightened that he has experienced the proof he was seeking, is undetermined. What we do know is that something is not right at Hill House!
Jeff Kennedy portrays Dr. Montague with the astute airs of a scientific professor. Theodora has a consistent flippant and flighty characterization, played by Rachel Mender. Maddy Smith was impressive as Eleanor. Sounding young and excited to be included in this adventure, her character evolves showing depths of fear, cheery attachment, and withdrawal into herself. Michelle Jackson as Mrs. Montague had facial expressions to match the annoyance and 'take charge attitude' the character felt. Josh Bliss is the heir Luke, a light, joking character. Steve Ledyard as Arthur, on the edge of comic relief.
"The Haunting of Hill House" is the first show I have seen Filonna Thomas in and I look forward to seeing more of her on the stage. She was a delight to behold. She presents the caretaker Mrs. Dudley in a commanding voice. Speaking directly of her role in the maintenance of the house, specifically what tasks she does and WILL NOT DO (much to the bemusement of the guests of the house). Thomas, through only the strength of her tone conveys an 'in the know' demure with a distain for the interlopers of the house.
The production team for "The Haunting of Hill House" created an audience immersion experience that goes beyond the surround sound of speakers, including some effects beyond those of only sound. Creepy, eerie, and suspenseful are some adjectives that come to mind describing this show.
The 2nd and last showing is Saturday October 26th, 7 pm at the Hannah center in East Lansing. Tickets are available online and at the door, general admission of $10 with a run time of just under two hours, including a 10 minute intermission.
Find The Audio Air Force on FB at
https://www.facebook.com/audioairforce?mibextid=ZbWKwL
Or their webpage:
https://audioairforce.com/
Ticket information can be found on the webpage, whereas the FB page will give you an insiders look at rehearsal shenanigans, dramatic theatrical trailers and cast interviews!
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