Reviewed by Vicki Stokes, Entertain This Thought. Reprinted with the permission of the author.
(Pictured: Randy Hughson and Tracey Ferencz. Photo by Drayton Entertainment.)
Prepare to be thrilled by Misery, now on the South Huron stage at Huron Country Playhouse. Last fall, Misery was staged at St. Jacobs Country Playhouse to positive reviews.
If you are unfamiliar with the book or the movie, Misery is the story of Paul Sheldon, a famous author who crashes his car during a snowstorm and is saved by his greatest fan, Annie Wilkes. While at first it seems Annie, a former nurse, has done everything she can despite the dire circumstances – blocked roads, widespread power outages and no phone service – we quickly discover that Annie isn’t quite so altruistic. Paul is held hostage while Annie forces him to walk back the death of her favourite character, Misery. Meanwhile, the town sheriff dismisses the FBI’s weak conclusions and does his own investigation, zeroing in on Annie and her suspicious behaviour.
Stephen King is the king of the horror genre, but Misery is a psychological thriller that can appeal to more than just horror fans. Paul’s feeling of being chained to the Misery series arose from King’s horror fans rejecting his fantasy novel. Paul’s self-proclaimed “number one fan,” Annie, represents King’s addictions and struggles to overcome them. The mental tango between Annie and Paul is mesmerizing to watch. Misery is riveting yet full of sarcastic wit, an enjoyable experience and not just a horror show.
The play, written by William Goldman, has changes for the sake of the stage, but it remains true to the complex character of Annie and to Paul’s mental reasoning. The decision to omit the intermission keeps up the momentum, and it’s not so lengthy that you lose attention. The average theatre-goer won’t need to go, so to speak.
The acting is exquisite, with Tracey Ferencz and Randy Hughson as the two leads. Roy Lewis plays the sleuthing sheriff and is also fight captain for this play. The emotional and physical pain feels real with these actors at the helm.
The rotating set draws you in as it whisks you from room to room of Annie’s gloomy home. Wintry sounds and lighting to simulate the passage of the days add to the realism.
While Stephen King horror is not everyone’s cup of tea, the tamer stage play has wider appeal. Everyone can appreciate Paul’s attempts to outwit the cunning and deranged Annie. Be aware that there’s strong language and simulated violence, which may be triggering for some. If that doesn’t bother you, Misery is one to see if you can.
Misery continues until July 18th at Huron Country Playhouse, South Huron Stage. Tickets are available by calling the Box Office at 519-238-6000, or Toll-Free at 1-855-372-9866, or by checking www.huroncountryplayhouse.com for availability.
Misery
Written by William Goldman
Based on the Novel by Stephen King
Directed by Skye Brandon
Performed by Tracey Ferencz, Randy Hughson, Roy Lewis
Produced by Drayton Entertainment
South Huron Stage, Huron Country Playhouse, Grand Bend
July 2nd to July 18th, 2026.
Reviewed by Vicki Stokes
To read more of Vicki’s Reviews, visit Entertain This Thought – Ontario Theatre Reviews
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