Take one deserted mansion in an English marsh, add in rumors of possible hauntings, children’s laughter and a nervous solicitor and what do you get: the perfect Halloween treat!
The Woman in Black is on stage now at the Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre. The beautifully dark show has long been a favorite in England. It’s the second longest-running play in London and was turned into a film starring Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter) earlier this year. Now the ICT is presenting the creepy production just in time for Halloween.
As Hitchcock taught audiences for years, the less you see the scarier it is. That idea holds true for this show as well. The show features a play within a play and though it starts out slow, the momentum builds in a wonderfully satisfying way.
This two-man show features excellent performances by both of its leads. Dan Scharbrough is the earnest Arthur Kipps, a troubled man who wants only to unburden himself of his terrible story. John Michael Goodson – last year’s Salieri in Amadeus – plays “the Actor.” He offers to perform Kipps story, but doesn't know exactly what he's getting himself into.
The set, designed by Ryan Koharchik, is just incredible. His clever use of curtains and lighting achieves so much without ever overwhelming the story. It was truly one of the highlights of the show.
Since opening in its new Carmel location last fall, it feels like the ICT has evolved in so many ways. Everything from the sets to the plays and musicals it has chosen to produce feel like they are a step up. The ICT has impressed me in so many ways in the past year and I’m excited to see what they have in store next. I hope that if you haven’t been to the ICT in a few years, you make it a priority to see at least one show there this season. You won’t regret it.
Don't Miss the Show
Performances:The show closes Nov. 10. Performances begin at 7 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. The Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre is located at 3 Center Green, Carmel, IN 46032 at the Center for the Performing Arts.
Tickets:
Ticket prices start at $39 and can be purchased by calling (317) 923-4597 or visiting www.civictheatre.org. There are $13 tickets available to students with a valid ID.
Photos courtesy of Zach Rosing
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