MONROE — Monroe Theatre Guild invites audiences to step inside one of literature’s most chilling houses with its fall production of The Haunting of Hill House, the classic stage adaptation by F. Andrew Leslie, from the novel by Shirley Jackson as part of the Colony Brand’s performance series. Directed for MTG by veteran director Andrew Rocheleau, with Assistant Director Dale Finley.
Cut off from the outside world by its remote location and shunned by all who know its forbidding and sinister reputation, Hill House has remained empty and silent except for the daily visits of its grumbling caretaker, Mrs. Dudley. Its isolation is broken by the arrival of Dr. Montague, an investigator of supernatural phenomena. When he assembles a small group to explore the paranormal at the infamous mansion, they encounter a presence that is as seductive as it is terrifying. As night falls, the mansion’s walls seem to close in, and reality begins to warp. The Haunting of Hill House blends suspense, Gothic atmosphere, and unforgettable characters in a theatrical experience perfect for chilly autumn nights.
This cast of talented local actors includes Jerry Bredeson as Dr. Montague and Andrew Reid as Luke, the heir to the mansion. Emily Duvall as Eleanor, is the timid young woman who feels an inexplicable pull from the house. Kaya Teasdale plays Theodora, a carefree and exotic woman who becomes a quick friend to Eleanor. Klaudia Buehl as Mrs. Dudley, the housekeeper who refuses to stay in the house after dark. Melissa Schnepper is Mrs. Montague, the wife of the doctor and fellow paranormal investigator. And Luke Smetters who plays Arthur, the stern headmaster at a school for boys and companion to Mrs. Montague.
“I knew I wanted to direct another show for MTG after Little Shop of Horrors was successful, but I didn’t have anything specific in mind,” said director Andrew Rocheleau. “I only knew I wanted something scary or spooky for fall. Of the half dozen scripts I read, The Haunting of Hill House spoke to me as the one to do.” Adding, “several outstanding individuals auditioned for this show, and of the seven roles, I had to do callbacks for four of them. People have been attracted to the supernatural for ages. We celebrate it every October with Halloween. This show fits perfectly.”
The Haunting of Hill House appears at Monroe Theatre Guild, 910 16th Ave, Monroe at 7 p.m. on the Colony Brand’s Stage October 10, 11, 17 and 18, and at 2 p.m. on October 12 and 19. Tickets are on sale online at monroetheatre.com, or at the MTG ticket window on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., or call 608-325-1111.
