King’s ‘Misery’ a thriller
William Goldman’s stage adaptation of Misery by Stephen King will exhilarate audiences at Centrepoint Theatre in Palmerston North, from May 28 – July 2. Starring acting powerhouses Neill Rea (The Brokenwood Mysteries), Alison Bruce (One Lane Bridge, The Power of the Dog, The Gulf) and Phil Anstis (Rise of the Planet of the Apes, Avatar), patrons can expect a wild ride full of twists and turns that will have them on the edge of their seats.
Best-selling romance novelist Paul Sheldon is driving home when a freak blizzard causes him to crash somewhere in rural Colorado. Luckily for Paul, former nurse and Paul’s biggest fan Annie Wilkes is here to rescue him, bringing Paul to her remote cabin to help him recover from his injuries.
As the storm outside continues to rage, Annie’s obsession grows. Paul Sheldon used to write for a living. Now he’s writing to stay alive. Centrepoint general manager and artistic director Kate Louise Elliott said she was particularly excited about Misery.
‘‘I am really looking forward to it. We have been wanting this one for years. It’s a real cult classic, and we are so thrilled to have such incredible actors bringing this show to our stage. This will be a spectacular performance; one that will stay with you long after the show has ended.’’
It will be the first time that real-life life lovebirds Neill and Alison grace the stage together, and they are both excited.
‘‘I look forward to being bed bound and having Alison waiting on me hand and foot,’’ joked Neill.
‘‘And I look forward to taking care of your every need… after all I’m you’re number one fan…’’ responded Alison.
Let’s keep the drama to the stage, people! Misery is directed by the accomplished Lara Macgregor, who starred as Annie Wilkes in The Court Theatre’s production of the show in 2018, which received rave reviews.
‘‘This is theatre that will make you nervously giggle, recoil in horror and will likely disrupt your sleep. There is nothing more certain – it is a brilliant show that people should not miss.’’ – Backstage Christchurch
‘‘The production overlays an acknowledged thriller with deeply satisfying theatre arts, so that the result has to be seen as a triumph for all involved.’’ – Theatreview
❚ Misery, Centrepoint Theatre, May 28 to July 2. Wednesdays 6.30pm, Thursdays to Saturdays 7.30pm, Sundays 4pm. Tickets: $25 – $45 from centrepoint.co.nz or call
06 354-5740.