Stage Adaptation of Stephen King's Misery to Premiere at Bucks County Playhouse

The stage adaptation of Stephen King’s psychological thriller Misery will receive its world premiere at Bucks County Playhouse in Pennsylvania. Adapted by two-time Oscar winner William Goldman (who penned the film adaptation of Misery) and directed by Will Frears, the play’s developmental engagement will play 11 performances only from November 24 through December 8. No casting has been announced.

Misery tells the story of novelist Paul Sheldon, as he makes the difficult transition from writing his popular historical romance series (featuring a heroine named Misery Chastain) to publishing literary fiction. Annie Wilkes, Sheldon's number one fan, rescues the author from the scene of a car accident during a storm. The former nurse takes care of him in her remote house, but becomes irate when she discovers that the author has killed Misery off in his latest book. Annie keeps Sheldon prisoner while forcing him to write a book that brings Misery back to life. In 1990, King’s novel was adapted for the screen, starring James Caan as Sheldon and Kathy Bates in an Oscar-winning performance as Wilkes.

Misery will feature set design by David Korins, costume design by Ann Roth, lighting design by David Weiner, sound design by Darron West, special effects by Gregory Meeh, fight direction by Rick Sordelet and original music by Michael Freidman.