Bay Area Stage Theatre brings thrills and chills in 'Misery'

Although Halloween is not for another six months, the Bay Area Stage Theatre's latest production of "Misery" should provide enough chills and thrills in the meantime.

Based on the classic Stephen King novel, film, and adaptation for stage by William Goldman, "Misery" - opening Friday - follows the story of a famous novelist who is rescued from a car crash by his "dangerously devoted" No. 1 fan.

The cast includes Jenny Rastegar as fan Annie Wilkes, Craig Rekdahl as writer Paul Sheldon, and Zack Bender as the sheriff.

"When you only have three people in a show, especially two major characters, that's a heavy load," said Stacey Loew, co-founder of Bay Area Stage Productions. "I applaud them for taking all the dialogue. They've worked incredibly hard."

Jeff Lowe, co-founder of Bay Area Stage Productions, will direct "Misery."

"Even people who never saw the movie or the book know what it's about," said Lowe.

Though the production will keep its overall suspenseful pace and darker themes, "comedic" moments have been added for levity.

Lowe said the production is "more faithful" to the film than the book, since the book is more graphic in violence.

"If we kept it to the book, people would probably leave," Lowe said. "But I made it my goal to keep the story as real as possible. It offers humor, but (audiences) need to be prepared for a little bit of violence."

An audience-discretion announcement will be played at the start of each show to prepare audiences.

"It's play violence, audiences will know into it that no one actually gets hurt," said Lowe.

Opening night audiences will be treated to a champagne reception and have the chance to mingle with actors.

Loew said audiences will often avoid opening night, choosing instead to attend once the cast has settled in and technical issues have been resolved.

"There's going to be a few hiccups along the way, but I think there's a great energy for both opening and closing night shows," she said. "We wanted to entice people to come on opening night with champagne because if they wait until closing night, they may not get to see the show. We've had to turn away people before."

The Bay Area Stage Theatre venue "comfortably" seats 70 people.

"We've crammed more people in that theatre, but the key is comfortably," she added. "It's a social opportunity. Because our theatre is so small, patrons have gotten to know other patrons.

Additionally, those attending on Mother's Day will also be treated to a glass of champagne at the box office to enjoy throughout the performance.

"This is a great diversion for those who need it," said Lowe. "From their personal life, from what's going on in the world. We're a true community theatre, and we welcome anyone who wants to be a part of it all."

"Misery" general admission tickets are $25, and senior tickets are $23.

The production will run Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. with afternoon performances on Sundays at 3 p.m.

"Misery" will run from Friday to Sunday, May 17, at the Bay Area Stage Theatre on Broadway at 515 Broadway Street.

To purchase tickets, visit: www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/misery-by-stephen-king-tickets-at-bay-area-stage-on-broadway

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This story was originally published April 29, 2026 at 7:21 PM.