Artistic poster for the play "Wait Until Dark" with abstract imagery

A Detailed Look at ‘Wait Until Dark’

The gripping thriller ‘Wait Until Dark’ by Frederick Knott first entered the world of theater in 1966. It was given a fresh breath of life through an adaptation by Jeffrey Hatcher in 2013. The play had its highly anticipated run from October 11th to November 15th, 2020, at the renowned Greenhouse Theater Center, located at 2257 N Lincoln Ave.

The Remarkable Adaptation in 2013

In 2013, Jeffrey Hatcher reimagined the iconic 1966 thriller “Wait Until Dark,” infusing it with a more direct and fast-paced narrative while transporting its setting back to the shadowy ambiance of the 1940s film noir era. This refreshed version is brought to the Chicago stage for its premiere by BoHo this autumn.

The Mesmerizing Plot Line

A stage set depicts a vintage interior with two actors in a tense scene

In this suspenseful thriller, a meticulously crafted narrative of deception, hidden personas, and a knife named Geraldine unfolds, promising to keep you on edge well into the night. Sam Hendrix, while away on a business trip, inadvertently becomes a courier for a bizarre doll concealing heroin, bringing it into the United States without his knowledge. His actions catch the attention of a cunning trio determined to profit from the drug. Their quest leads them to Sam’s lower Manhattan home, where his wife Susan, recently rendered blind from a vehicular mishap, resides. As these ruthless individuals make their move to seize the doll, a tense and perilous confrontation ensues within the confines of their home. Armed with her ingenuity and the cover of night, Susan sets a strategic trap, ensuring the rules of engagement favor her, sparking a riveting showdown with her aggressors.

Conclusion

‘Wait Until Dark’ remains a notable thriller in theater, attracting audiences worldwide with its enduring story and engaging characters. The tension-filled plot and insightful themes ensure it’s a play worth seeing. Jeffrey Hatcher’s 2013 adaptation revitalized the story, adding to its mystery and attractiveness. The play’s focus on survival and examination of darker aspects of human behavior keep it relevant and respected in the theater community.