Photo by Anela Bence-Selkowitz
For over half a century, William Peter Blatty’s novel, “The Exorcist,” and its subsequent film progeny have frightened and inspired horror lovers.
Now, during the 50th anniversary of the original movie release, the most infamous story of faith and fear comes to Harrisburg to thrill audiences in a brand new stage production.
This new adaptation, set to have its East Coast premiere at Open Stage this month, was penned by John Pielmeier, who is best known for the award-winning play and movie, “Agnes of God.” Producing artistic director Stuart Landon directs the production at Open Stage.
The story of “The Exorcist” follows Regan MacNeil (portrayed by Emily Reusswig in the Open Stage production), a young girl who begins to display unexplainable ailments and violent outbursts, which mystify her doctors. When modern medicine fails, the unexplainable can only be explained by one thing: demonic possession.
Regan’s desperate mother, movie star Chris MacNeil (Tara Herwig), seeks aid from a local priest, Damian Kerras (Jeff Luttermoser). Kerras faces a crisis of faith as he is haunted by the demon residing in Regan along with his own quiet and personal traumas. Together with exorcist Father Merrin (Ted Hanson), they face a relentless battle against a powerful, ancient evil.
In 1973, William Friedkin’s film adaptation of “The Exorcist” shook the world, earning two Academy Awards and the title of “the scariest movie ever made.” It amassed a staggering $193 million at the box office (equivalent to nearly $894 million in 2023) and remains one of the most successful horror films in history with a global franchise worth $1.1 billion. A new sequel, “The Exorcist: Believer,” starring Ellen Burstyn, reprising her role from the original film, arrives this month, serving as a direct sequel to the first film.
“We’re unleashing something truly extraordinary onto the stage,” said Landon. “This is not just a copycat of the movie—it’s a unique theatrical experience based on the original novel. The playwright has made some significant deviations from the film—driven by the practicality of stage design and performance—but audiences will find it just as beautiful and terrifying. I think this production will be unlike anything Harrisburg has seen before.”
Some of the most heart-stopping moments are crafted through sound, lighting and special effects, ensuring a visceral experience for the audience, which can expect to see the iconic and bloody visuals that earned “The Exorcist” its reputation. For those of you who have seen the movie: yes, even that one.
The cast also includes Tommy Dougherty, Brennen Dickerson, Josh Dorsheimer, Brian Schreffler, Chris Krahulec and Joellen Terranova. The production boasts special effects by Karen Ruch, Jen Kilander and Sammi Leigh Melville, with set and costume design by Landon, lighting design by Tristan Stasiulis, sound design by Josh Rhodes, and property design by Becky Arney, with Stacy Reck serving as production stage manager.
“The Exorcist” transcends modern horror, challenging audiences’ deepest beliefs and fears. Friedkin and Blatty’s goal with the original film was far more ambitious than making a scary movie. They aimed to make people “think about the concept of good and evil.”
Don’t miss your chance to experience “The Exorcist” live on stage this month, but be warned. This spine-chilling journey contains material that may shock and offend, so it’s not recommended for those under 18.
“The Exorcist” runs Oct. 7 to 31 at Open Stage, 25 N. Court St., Harrisburg. For more information and tickets, visit www.openstagehbg.com or call 717-232-6736.
UPCOMING EVENTS
At Open Stage
www.openstagehbg.com
717-232-6736
“The Exorcist”
The horror classic live on stage
Oct. 7 to 31
EFF Live!
Naughty readings of fanfics
Sunday, Oct. 8 at 7:30 p.m.
Black NewsBeat with Dr. Kimeka Campbell
Join us in the studio audience for an episode taping!
Oct 11 & 25 at 7:30 p.m.
“The Masque of the Red Death”
A horror rock concept experience
Oct. 19 to 22
Court Street Cabaret
Halloween Edition
Spooky songs from Broadway and beyond
Thursday, Oct. 26 at 7:30 p.m.
Mrs. Kasha Davis
“There’s Always Room for a Cocktail”
The “RuPaul’s Drag Race” all-star comes to Harrisburg
Saturday, Nov. 4 at 7:30 p.m.
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