OxACT set to bring ‘Misery’ to the stage
Oxford's local theater organization will put on a production of Stephen King's "Misery" for two weeks starting Feb. 21.
A Deranged Fan. A trapped Author. Broken bones. Viewers can expect to see all of this and more in OxACT’s latest production, “Misery”, a play based on the Stephen King novel.
The play features the character of Annie Wilkes, played by Becky Howard, who kidnaps her favorite author, played by Ben Mattox. The author attempts to escape Wilkes’ clutches, all while trying desperately to get the Sheriff, played by LaTricia Hillman, to help him.
Director Kayleigh Swatzell is looking forward to bringing the play to the Oxford Community Arts Center (OCAC) stage.
“I was excited to do something a little different and a little more well-known,” Swetzell said.
OxACT, which stands for Oxford Area Community Theater, was founded in 1980 with its inaugural three-show season. The nonprofit organization has been a partner to the OCAC since its 2005-06 season, the first time it held performances in the OCAC building.
Throughout its existence, OxACT has followed its three-show season model. “Misery” is the second show this season. The third, “Every Brilliant Thing,” will be performed in late April and early May.
The play’s small cast faced illness and time constraints but was able to put together a stellar set and a moving performance. The set is small, depicting the kidnapper's house, lending to the trapped atmosphere of the play.
Mattox says this experience is unlike anything he’s been doing for the last 20 years.
“It's a different role for me,” Mattox said. “I'm usually in comedies and musicals, and this is scary.”
Mattox said his favorite part of the role is “Crawling across the floor,” and dragging himself along with one arm as the other is in a cast.
Not only is the play a community production, but it is a chance for friends to come together.
“These are my friends and people I care about and have fun with, so it's just a good time,” Swetzell said. “You enjoy coming to rehearsal with these people.”
The play will run for two weeks, with performances at 7:30p.m. on Feb. 21, 22 and 28 and March 1. The show will also have 2 p.m. matinees on Feb. 23 and March 2. Tickets are available for $15 at www.oxact.org. Children under 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
