Theater company loves ‘Misery’

Riverbend Players will bring edge-of-your-seat suspense to the Oregon Coast with a nine-show run of “Misery” at the NCRD Performing Arts Center, opening this Friday, Feb. 27.

Directed by Randy Schultz, the gripping stage adaptation promises an intense theatrical experience audiences won’t soon forget.

Based on the novel by Stephen King and adapted for the stage by William Goldman, “Misery” follows bestselling romance novelist Paul Sheldon, who is rescued from a devastating car crash by his self-proclaimed “number one fan,” Annie Wilkes. What begins as salvation quickly spirals into captivity when Annie discovers Paul has killed off her beloved heroine. Trapped in Annie’s remote home, Paul must rely on wit, endurance and imagination to survive.

Under Schultz’s direction, the Riverbend Players production leans into the psychological tension and claustrophobic suspense that have made “Misery” a modern thriller classic.

“This story isn’t just about physical danger,” Schultz said. “It’s about obsession, control and the terrifying power imbalance between creator and admirer. The intimacy of the stage makes it even more immediate as the audience feels like they’re in the room.”

The production transforms the venue into a snowbound Colorado home, drawing audiences into the escalating battle of wills between captor and captive. With tightly paced performances and mounting suspense, “Misery” delivers a theatrical experience that is both chilling and emotionally charged.

The production contains mature themes and intense moments of suspense. Audience discretion is advised.

Performances begin at 7 pm on Fridays and Saturdays and 2 pm on Sundays from February 27 through March 15 at the NCRD Performing Arts Center, located at 36155 9th Street in Nehalem. Tickets are $10 to $25. For more information, go to RiverbendPlayers.org.