“Something Wicked This Way Comes” at Corn Stock (Review)

PHOTO: Frank Toniny

November 6th, 2018 – Note from the editor: The following is a combination of recollections by Frank Toniny and Wil Baker.

FRANK: When most people think of Corn Stock, they think of the giant tent that they house performances under. However, they also put on spectacular performances all year round—inside, too, of course. Their most recent production is Something Wicked This Way Comes. If that title sounds familiar to you, it would be because you probably read the Ray Bradbury book, Something Wicked This Way Comes. The play is a well done adaption of the book and has many lines directly from the text. So if you’re a picky book-lover, like me, that hates when adaptions are nothing like the actual story, you wouldn’t be disappointed.

WIL: Directed by Celeste Wohl, this dark story—filled with thrills, illusions, fantasy, and the power of good over evil—kept us glued to our seats. As the story goes, Cooger & Dark’s Pandemonium Shadow Show, an evil carnival, came to the heartland of America: Green Town, Illinois, to draw and mesmerize the fair people to fear and doom.

The main characters Olga Phelps (Willa) and Grace Blume (Jim) portrayed to the audience the reserved and rebellious minds of 13 year-olds. Jacob Ulhman gave us a dynamic performance as Mr. Dark. He was tattooed all over his body. According to Amanda Foster (makeup artist), it took about 3 hours to tattoo Mr. Dark before every show and rehearsal. Chris Peterlin (Charles Halloway) presented a warm mentor with a fatherly charm. Considering the limited props and the theatre’s round stage, the 56 member cast and crew gave a compelling and extraordinary performance.

FRANK: Unlike most plays, Corn Stock’s plays are blocked in a circular form because there is seating on every side of the theater. This helps to keep the scene moving. You won’t get bored from watching a stiff scene. The actors are well cast and fit their characters incredibly well. Mr. Dark has a great stage presence and makes sure to keep you on the edge of your seat, whether it’s from curiosity or suspense. There was a good amount of audience participation. I got picked out of the crowd by Mr. Dark, so audience members in the front row had to be prepared for a possible stare-down with the antagonist.

Don’t worry if you weren’t able to make this show. Corn Stock is always putting on productions and runs off of word of mouth. Just make sure to keep your ears open and regularly check their website for information on their next performances.

To see upcoming events at Corn Stock, visit www.cornstocktheatre.com or call 676 2196.

By Frank Toniny and Wil Baker