Theatre in the Park's "It is Done" Offers Season-Appropriate Thrills and Chills

It’s October- the month of Halloween- which means it’s the perfect time for spooky shows. And, Theatre in the Park’s production of the regional premiere of It is Done, written by Alex Goldberg and directed by Ira David Wood III, definitely fits the bill.

The story takes place in a deserted (except for one bartender and two lone patrons) bar in a desolate place in the middle of nowhere. Howling wind side effects and animal skulls hanging on the walls add to the creepy atmosphere. Despite the “fear factor,” however, the rustic bar set is beautiful in its own right. Expansive and painstakingly detailed, it’s the perfect place for this tale to take place.

The story really gets intense when Jonas (Jock Brokci), a man who has spent his life running away from something, though he’s not sure exactly what, relates that he has been plagued by nightmares. He divulges this all to Ruby (Olivia Fitts), a mysterious young woman who has found herself stranded at the bar.

Together, the two chat and get to know one another, with occasional interruptions from the lecherous barkeeper, Hank, played to slimy perfection by Tony Pender.

Creepy music and extreme lighting touches add suspense to the fast-paced story, taking it to an exciting crescendo in which things turn supernatural and Jonas learns a shocking truth.  Brocki does an amazing job navigating the many, tumultuous emotions Jonas experiences throughout the course of the play and is well-tempered by Fitts’ slinky, even portrayal of Ruby.

Filled with Hawthorne -esque atmosphere and delivery, this creepy show is the perfect play to keep you up all night. Different, unique, and subtly evocative, It is Done is a definite must-see this Halloween season.