For some of us, it’s been a while since our skin crawled with dread and suspense over being captivated by a spine-chilling ghost story. But when done correctly, characters who disappear in a flash and creaky floors can still invoke our inner fears and leave us enthralled and wanting more. Feel the hair-raising chill of StageCenter Theatre’s adaptation of Henry James’ “The Turn of the Screw” from April 14-30.
Set in a remote estate in Victorian-era London, a young governess is hired to be the caretaker of two orphan siblings as the play brings to life the classic novella. Through a series of eerie, suspenseful events, it doesn’t take long for the innocent governess to realize that she’s not alone and haunted by the previous governess and former groundskeeper. But are these two actually dead, or merely figments of her imagination? Does she encounter her predecessors or is she going insane? In this adaptation, you become the jury and decide.
The rigid furniture, gothic art, and buttoned corsets in this play clearly set us in the era of restraint and repression, and the story contributes to a larger message as the audience watches the governess’ journey of gaining her own power, even at the expense of her innocence and possibly her life.
Bringing hundreds of productions to life since 1964, StageCenter Theatre’s doors are open to anyone who wants to experience the exciting (and sometimes blood-curdling) experience of live theater. “The Turn of the Screw” will be showing every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, April 14-30 at 7:30 p.m. There is one additional Sunday matinee on April 24 at 2 p.m. Purchase your tickets and find out more information on StageCenter’s website.
