The Woman in Black – October 26-30, 2010
THE WOMAN IN BLACK *
A ghost play
Adapted by Stephen Malatratt from the book by Susan Hill
October 26-30, 2010
Presented at the Governor’s Mansion as part of the “Thriller at Terrace Hill” series.
Arthur Kipps, a solicitor, hires a theatre and the services of a professional actor to help him re-enact – and thereby hopefully exorcise – a ghostly event which befell him many years previously with horrifying tragic results. From the the cluttered stage, Kipps begins to read his story: painfully, self-consciously and hesitantly. But, coached by the actor and aided by theatrical artifice, he grows in confidence and ability as he assumes a variety of roles. The actor portrays the young Kipps, sent north by his London firm to settle the estate of an elderly recluse, the late Mrs. Drablow, in whose isolated marshland house Kipps encounters the Woman in Black. The spectre, seeking vengeance for the death of her child, attaches herself to Kipps and unleashes a macabre sequence of events which culminate in a truly chilling twist. Stephan Mallatratt’s adaptation of the original novel by Susan Hill was triumphantly staged in Scarborough and subsequently enjoyed an extended run in the West End.
“There may be better ghost stories around in print, but I can’t think of one that has been so carefully developed for the stage…” International Herald Tribune
“…a brilliantly effective spine-chiller without a trace of self-mocking absurdity … the narrative is gripping. What strikes me is how well the novel adapts to the stage.” The Guardian
“The Woman in Black is as immaculate an example of the gothic horror story as you could wish for, building to its climax with the slow, purposeful precision of an Edwardian time-piece.” City Limits
Tickets are $55 each and include reception with the cast following each performance. Seating is limited to 46 brave souls per night. Reservations are urged early for this popular event by calling 515-280-3450 or by emailing stevenoperson@aol.com Be sure to use ‘Thriller’ in the subject line of your email.
Directed by John Earl Robinson**
CAST:
Arthur Kipps……………………………….Richard Richards**
The Actor………………………………….James Serpento**
* Special Engagement – not included in Regular Season
** indicates RTI company member
