The Auburn Area Community Theatre (AACT) will be presenting "Misery," a new production based on the novel from Stephen King, from Oct. 24 to Nov. 2 at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. The psychological thriller is one of many productions in AACT's 21st season and is recommended for patrons 16 and older.
“Misery” is set to run on from Oct. 24 to Oct. 25, Oct. 30 to Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 at 7 p.m., with matinee performances on Oct. 26 and Nov. 2 at 2 p.m. Other special events include a cast talk-back session for the Oct. 30 performance and a costume contest for patrons prior to the Halloween performance on Oct. 31.
The production, written by William Goldman, is adapted from renowned horror writer Stephen King's 1987 novel of the same name, as well as the 1990 Academy Award-winning film. While the story has been adapted as a play as early as 1990, this year’s production marks the first time ACCT will present "Misery."
The production’s story follows the relationship of characters Paul Sheldon, a novelist, and Annie Wilkins, his supposed number-one fan. According to AACT’s official website, “Trapped in Annie’s remote home, Paul must outwit his unhinged captor in a deadly game of survival that will leave you breathless until the shocking finale.” The production is advertised as recommended for ages 16 and up, due to strong language, simulated violence, gunfire and blood. Patrons 15 and below will need an adult to attend with them.
Prior to the debut of “Misery," AACT held an exclusive “Misery Party,” featuring a Halloween celebration and sneak peek at the new production on Oct. 15 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. The event was free to attend and guests were able to partake in a costume contest, as well as enjoy live performances and get an exclusive first look at the upcoming show before its debut later this month.
“Misery” tickets are on sale now on a first-come, first-serve basis. Ticket prices are $14 for adults, with a reduced price of $12 for students and seniors. Individual tickets can be found the official AACT website. For information on group rates, email info@auburnact.org.
The AACT production “Misery” is directed by Bradley Cantrell, with Terry Kelley serving as assistant director. Richard Trammell and Georgia Hare star as Paul Sheldon and Annie Wilkes respectively, with Roy Washburn as Sheriff Buster.
AACT’s 21st season began earlier this year, opening with Stephen Sondheim’s award-winning musical, “Company,” in July, and continuing with “The Aristocats KIDS” in September. AACT will close out 2025 with the performance event “A Holiday Walk in the Woods” in December, which will be co-hosted by the Kreher Preserve and Nature Center.
AACT is a nonprofit, volunteer-driven organization, founded in Auburn in 2003. In partnership with the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, AACT provides an opportunity for education and participation in the theatre community in the Auburn-Opelika area. For more upcoming events at AACT and information about showtimes, visit auburnact.org.
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