I am one of the few people who have never seen the infamous movie version of Misery, (nor read the Stephen King novel) so the intrigue and mystery of if/how the captive novelist would escape the clutches of his obsessed “Number One Fan,” Annie, kept me riveted.
As Annie, Stephanie Banghart commanded an unnerving range from starry-eyed, fan-girl sweetness to deeply disturbed obsession and violence — coddling, coercing and torturing car-crash victim novelist Paul Sheldon. He was perilously well played by Glen Tenoff, whom we commiserated with though a wide array of mental and physical challenges. Andy Frikken was a strong presence as Sheriff Buster, a significant twister of the plot.
Amy Jo Brown seems to be an all-purpose director, also handling set/sound//costume/props … and, one assumes, fight choreography, as no one else is listed in that specific capacity. This show presents many logistical challenges and even physical dangers which were well handled — and the cast appeared to be alive and well at curtain call, prepared to creep you out next weekend.
Many worthy theatrical options next weekend include Merrily We Roll Along, Fabulation, Magnolia Ballet and Misery — and/or the Friday-Night-Only 7 pm Arsenic & Old Lace radio show at Hannah Center with Lee Helder and me!
Misery is recommended for adult audiences 13 and older; violence; strong language — reservations & info at https://lebowskycenter.com