Quote of the Day: I believe even the most rational minds can play tricks in the dark. from The Woman in Black, adapted for the stage by Stephen Mallatratt from the book by Susan Hill. On stage at the Chalberg Theater at Central Lakes College in Brainerd, MN.
The Woman in Black at CLC, Brainerd, MN, photo by John Erickson
With it’s atmospheric lighting, sound effects, and grim story, The Woman in Black is a spooktacular way to start your Halloween weekend. CLC Theater Director Patrick Spradlin directs and acts in this play along with Brainerd area theater veteran Kevin Yeager. The two play the various characters that occupy the creepy story of a English countryside, a man who needs to purge himself of the story, and his friend who doesn’t know what he’s getting himself into by bringing those characters to life. The show is filled with ghostly images, eerie sound effects, and a story that sends a chill down your spine. I don’t know if it was the chilly theater, the first snowstorm of the season blowing in, or the great theatrical effects, but I actually felt my skin crawl during this show!
Patrick Spradlin in The Woman in Black at CLC, Brainerd, MN, photo by John Erickson
Patrick and Kevin have great chemistry on stage and a trust in each other to deliver the story. Kevin plays the dark characters well, and Patrick maintains a presumed innocence to what is going on. The audience experiences mystery along with the characters.
The biggest praise goes to set designer/technician George Marsolek for the sensational imagery. Ben Kent manages the complex lighting and sound effects. Dawn Marks provided wonderful period costumes, and the support staff kept it all running smoothly. The audience sighed, gasped, and even chuckled in a few places. The Woman in Black sets the stage for a spooky and entertaining Halloween weekend. I dare you to go and experience this show! (May not be suitable for young children or people who spook easily, for the rest of us, it was good, creepy fun!)
Patrick Spradlin and Kevin Yeager in The Woman in Black at CLC performing arts center in Brainerd, MN, photo by John Erickson
Local photographer John Erickson took some fantastic shots of the rehearsals of The Woman in Black. You can see a photo exhibit in the hallways near the Chalberg Theater inside the college. Even if you can’t make it to
Kevin Yeager in The Woman in Black at CLC in Brainerd, MN, photo by John Erickson
the show, go check out the awesome images. They really capture the atmosphere of this show.
You can get tickets through the CLC performing arts website, by stopping in or calling the box office, 218-855-8199, or purchase at the door. I hope it sells out! Shows are on Friday night and Saturday night at 7:30, and a Saturday matinee at 2:00. Closes Saturday October 28, 2017.
Go. Create. Inspire!
Journaling Prompt: Are there any sensational stories that have turned into community lore where you live?
Ooh, I love this story so much, both the book and the movie. Do you feel it translated well to theatre?
I have no idea why Susan Hill’s work isn’t more celebrated.
The play was terrific. Just the right amount of spooky. It made me want to read the book.