This pundit did not what to expect having never seen the movies but was put at ease during the opening number, complete with impressive portable car.
Kevin Tracy's sophisticated direction invites the audience to the party immediately. While the production will be scary-fun, we are informed that none of it is meant to be taken seriously. Yet, Tracy grounds the production with a sense of credibility permitting the subsequent camp to have places to go.
Joe Van Allen as Ash hams up the role perfectly with a blend of self-awareness and raw sexuality. Literally throwing himself into the part, he pulls off (if you'll pardon this expression) the demanding physicality effortlessly. As does Colin Allen as Scott who is equally paired with Van Allen. He knows how to control his character's over-the-top quirkiness while never going over-the-top.
Emily Eaton's charming portrayal of Shelly is refreshingly less stereotypical airhead and more sweetly innocent. Erin Fitzgerald is smooth and consistent as the grounded Linda. Samantha Hinds takes the role of Cheryl seriously which makes her interpretation so much fun. Her timing and delivery are appropriately hysterical.
The rest of the cast rounds out the ensemble with equal caliber.
Karen's Webb's costume design offers the audience a sense of time and place with color palates and individual styles matching the unique personalities. Her trees in the woods are a marvel to be seen.
Musical Director Eric Johnson succeeds at providing the right amount of spookiness and fun to the complex score.
Bartlett Doty and Tracy's set design is solid, as is the intricate lighting design by Tracy and Webster Marsh. The technical challenges are successfully met, especially the splatter factor, which is done with professional precision and ease.
Sarah Devine's choreography is fun to watch, and everyone looks like they're having a great time, in spite of the goings-on in the woods.
While this show may not be for everyone, if you dare visit The Shea Theater, you will have a ghostly good time!
http://ghostlightmass.org
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