Theater Review: Misery

                                 MISERY

If you ever thought it would be fun to be a writer, you might think again after you’ve seen William Goldman’s “Misery,” based on Stephen King’s novel of the same name.

“Misery” is about a famous novelist who has written a series of books about a woman called Misery, after which he has a terrible auto accident that puts him in bed and in pain for weeks and weeks.

His name is Paul Sheldon, and we meet him there, barely able to move. He sleeps most of the time, which seems a good idea. But somehow he acquires a full-time “nurse” named Annie Wilkes. She’s not a nurse, but Annie just happens to be a huge fan of Sheldon’s books, and she sees this as an opportunity to get him to write the book she wants to read.

How all this works out is on the stage through Dec. 7 at downtown San Diego’s Tenth Avenue Arts Center, presented by Backyard Renaissance Theatre Company and directed by MJ Sieber.

Francis Gercke plays Sheldon, and I must say this is the first time I can recall this popular actor pretty much unable to move without moaning. He seems to be sleeping most of the time - at least at the beginning.

Maggie Carney’s Annie Wilkes is questionable (to say the least) in the nursing department but has her own very definite ideas about what Sheldon’s next book should be, and she is determined to show him.

If this sounds like a recipe for disaster, you’re right, and Annie’s behavior just gets worse and worse as Sheldon ends up in more and more pain, largely thanks to her behavior.

A policeman called Buster, played by Alex Guzman, shows up now and then as well.

This is not a pleasant show to watch, nor does it want to be. Just know that you’re seeing a well-done production, and be prepared for the sledgehammer. If you’re a tippler, you might also do well to have a glass or two of wine before the show starts.

The details

“Misery” plays through Dec. 7, 2024 at the Tenth Avenue Arts Center, 930 Tenth Avenue in downtown San Diego.

Shows are at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday.

Tickets ($18-$40) can be purchased by phone (760-975-7189) or online at backyard renaissance.com