By RHEA-FRANCES TETLEY
Staff Writer
Attending live theater, whether in costume or not, is an excellent way to get into the mood for Halloween. This Oct. 24, 25, 31 and Nov. 1, the Heisler Theater Company will again be performing Night of the Living Dead on the Tudor House stage. Last year it was reviewed as “the craziest thing ever seen on the local stage.”
“Witness George Romero’s iconic horror story unfold before your eyes in a pulse-pounding performance that will leave you breathless,” promises Director Jeff Heisler. “Most remember this classic horror story, but none have ever seen it like this before.”
Since the story is now within the public domain, Heisler has taken some liberties to include modern technology, to create some local impact. There are numerous Crestline and Lake Arrowhead references in the show, and it will also include some local video footage in the background of some of the scenes. Watch the undead rise at the historic Tudor House, blending timeless horror with the eerie charm of one of Lake Arrowhead’s most haunted venues.
On the performance nights of Oct. 24 and 25 after the live show will be a screening of the original 1968 movie The Night of the Living Dead on the Tudor House’s large screen.
Did you know that when the original movie version was to be released 57 years ago, it was initially entitled Night of the Flesh Eaters? However, just before the movie was to be released, the title was changed to Night of the Living Dead; since then it has gone on to become a cult classic. The movie varies only slightly from the original playscript.
The local locations Heisler has incorporated into the story make it feel more local and impactful for the audience. Are they coming for you? Are you even safe within the confines of the Victorian-style Tudor House? Because there are many, many zombies (maybe even at your table).
After the performances on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 the DAP band will play. Food and drink will be available for purchase. There will be a costume contest at each show, so come dressed in costume if you wish.
The performers for the Night of the Living Dead are Brian Follis as Ben; Becky Ikenberry as Barbara; Aiden Lynch as Johnny; Gaye Gamble-Heisler as Helen; Alan McNeil as Harry; Ryan Moore as Tom; Sam Lynne as Karen; Mike Brewer as Sheriff McClelland; Michael Farris as Zombie #1; and Lanette Verdugo as the Stage Zombie, plus other zombies you may or may not recognize.
Those working backstage supporting this production are Shari Spencer as the stage manager; Dana Merola as the theater coordinator; Haven Bormann as curtain flyer; Alex May doing script and sound; and Matthew Merola controlling the lights.
The Tudor House is located at 800 Arrowhead Villa Road in Arrowhead Villas. Tickets are now available online at www.HeislerTheater.com for $20 in advance. Experience this classic tale as brought to you by the Heisler Theater Company. It will be a frightening good time.
0 Comments