There is no misery in Live Theatre Workshop’s production of the chilling play, “Misery.”
It’s based on a Stephen King novel (adapted by William Goldman), so of course it would be chilling.
Sabian Trout’s sharp direction and pristine performances by Brendan Guy Murphy and Lesley Abrams made sure that every creepy element of the story is illuminated.
Here’s the story: Paul (Murphy) is a novelist. Annie (Abrams) is, by her own declaration, his No. 1 fan.
While stalking him, Annie sees his car careen off an icy road. Naturally, she takes the seriously injured writer to her nearby home. She is a nurse, after all.
Brendan Guy Murphy and Lesley Abrams in Live Theatre’s “Misery.”
In his latest book, he has killed off Annie’s favorite character, Misery. She insists he bring her back and write a new book. And she won’t let him go until he does.
See? Creepy.
Abrams’ Annie pivots from rage to tenderness. You never know what will set her off. Neither does Paul. Abrams embraced the crazy in the character, infusing her with tension and humor (though this is definitely not a comedy). We always love it when Abrams is on stage, and her owning the out-there Annie was a treat.
Murphy’s Paul was a charming, easy-going chap who can’t believe he is caught in this scenario. Murphy is as understated as Abrams is wild, and the two of them were a perfect team.
The play is a swift 90 minutes, with no intermission, and the tension is woven through every second.
It’s grand fun.
Live Theatre Workshop’s production of “Misery” continues through Nov. 10 at 3322 E. Fort Lowell Road. Tickets are $27-$30 at 520-327-4242 or livetheatreworkshop.org.
