Veteran actors bring chilling tale to a cozy barn in VanSlade production of "Misery"

By: Liz Dadson September 9, 2026 463

Veteran actors bring chilling tale to a cozy barn in VanSlade production of "Misery"

Three local veteran actors have brilliantly brought to the stage, the grisly, gruesome play, "Misery," based on the novel by Stephen King.

The VanSlade production, which opens tomorrow (Sept. 10) at SS Stables in Kincardine, is a case of contradictions, featuring a chilling tale in a cozy barn, superb acting in a horrifying thriller, and fast-paced action in a homey setting.

The story revolves around Tom Albrecht as famous romance novelist Paul Sheldon, and Elaine Slade as Annie Wilkes, his number-one fan, with John F. Adams as Buster, the sheriff, arriving on the scene several times throughout the show.

In the play, Annie rescues Paul from a car crash and he wakes up captive in her secluded home. While he is convalescing, she reads his latest book and becomes enraged when she discovers the author has killed off her favourite character, Misery Chastain. She forces him to write a new "Misery" novel, and he quickly realizes that she has no intention of letting him go anywhere.

As dark and sinister as the plot is, there are some comic moments which will have you laughing in spite of yourself. The major action is beautifully staged, with some incredible fight scenes and a gun going off. As the horror progresses, you will find yourself physically getting the chills, so you may want to bring a coat or sweater along.

So, will Paul get away from his psychotic number-one fan? You'll have to buy a ticket to find out.

The play, adapted by William Goldman, is from the horror-thriller genre which includes physical violence and murder. It has strong language and profanity, including repeated use of the F-word. There are some frightening and suspenseful interactions. It is an adult-themed play, running 90 minutes with no intermission.

The show runs Sept. 10-12 and 16-19, at 8 p.m., with doors open at 7:30 p.m., at SS Stables, 2328 Highway 21, north of the Town of Kincardine.

Tickets are $30 each, plus fees, and are available on-line at www.onstagedirect.com. A limited number of tickets will also be available at the show.