Theatre of Dare Dives Into ‘Misery’; Theatrical adaptation of Stephen King’s thriller opens Nov. 8 – OBX Today

Theatre of Dare Dives Into ‘Misery’; Theatrical adaptation of Stephen King’s thriller opens Nov. 8 - OBX Today
(Theatre of Dare)

Theatre of Dare is hoping to make its fans feel the Misery in its upcoming November production.

“We’re leaning into the suspense, the isolation and the terror,” said director Damon Horak. “We plan to use cinematic storytelling to immerse the audience in this intense psychological thriller.”

The story of Misery, for those who have not read the 1987 Stephen King bestseller or seen the 1990 movie, involves romance novel writer Paul Sheldon (Terry Shappert) who is seriously injured in a car accident on an icy road. He is rescued by nurse Annie Wilkes (Mary Kendrick), who begins to treat his injuries in her remote mountain cabin. She claims to be the author’s “number one fan”, but when the plotline of Sheldon’s upcoming novel is revealed, her mood begins to darken.

And that’s all the cast and crew want you to know.

“We’re keeping a tight lid on everything,” laughed Kendrick. “From the set to the action to the practical effects, we’re looking to keep the audience on the edge of their seats.”

Both the Misery novel and the movie were commercial and critical hits, landing King at number four on 1987’s bestseller list, and earning Kathy Bates a Best Actress Oscar for her portrayal of Annie Wilkes in the film.

But Theatre of Dare wants you to know that theirs will be a whole new level of Misery.

“As a live stage performance, people will be able to experience this frightening story in ways they can’t by reading the book or watching the movie,” says Horak. “We’re hoping that even those well familiar with this story will feel the intensity and suspense as they experience Misery.”    

‘Misery’ will be performed at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 8, 9, 14, 15, and 16 with matinees Nov. 10 and 17 at 2 p.m. All performances will be at Theatre of Dare in Kitty Hawk, 3848 N. Croatan Highway. Tickets are available online at theatreofdareobx.com and at the door, subject to availability. This show is rated R for profanity and violence.