Theatre review: I’ll Be Back Before Midnight

I'll Be Back Before Midnight cast photo
by Dale Sutton

I’ll Be Back Before Midnight by Peter Colley, directed by Ted Jaquith at Edmonds Driftwood Players, October 16-24, 2015

By Doug Gochanour

Ready for something intense that is just in time for the Halloween season? The Edmonds Driftwood Players offer us “I’ll Be Back Before Midnight” as part of their Theatre of Intriguing Possibilities series.

This play has all the necessary edgy characteristics. There is a haunted farmhouse located out in the boonies. There was an unsolved axe murder at that farmhouse. As midnight approaches, the audience will be on the edge of their seats to see what transpire next.

Jason Conner and Veronica Tuttell bring life to the roles of Greg and Jan Sanderson. Greg’s sister Laura Sanderson is played by Anne Arnold. Adding comic relief and eventually terror is Phillip Kelman in his role as George Wiloby. Each actor gives a commendable performance.

Greg and Jan are attempting to make a fresh start in their marriage, following Jan’s extended illness. Her hospitalization left Jan still somewhat mentally unstable. In a questionable move, Greg brings his sister along, in spite of the jealousy and animosity exhibited between wife Jan and his sister Laura. 

Greg and Laura appear to be plotting something sinister toward Jan. Could this be?

A key component of the mystery is revealed by George Wiloby. George owns the farmhouse and welcomes Greg and Jan. He starts out as the friendly story-teller, then reveals the haunting circumstances of a murder within that very room. He adds both comic relief and terror as the story unfolds. George’s role becomes more involved in the terror aspect as the tale progresses.

The living room might better be called the death room.

Conveniently placed about this room are potentially deadly weapons. These include a shotgun, some ancient stone weapons, and even medications which could become poisons. This combination of materials provides the means for a surprising outcome as the various opposing forces attempt to play out their own evil agendas.

It is no trick to treat yourself to great entertainment at our local Wade James Theatre.

It is always a pleasure to support the Edmonds Driftwood Players. The cast, the production team, dedicated volunteers, and the staff all do a wonderful job. The fine sets, sound, lighting, direction and special effects are much appreciated.

Tickets here

Driftwood Players at the Wade James Theatre 950 Main St, Edmonds, WA 98020, 425-774-9600.