This weekend a haunting production will entertain audiences in the form of a chilling Black Box Grant. Performances will take place Feb. 8-9 at 7:30 p.m. in the Southern Utah University Auditorium Black Box.
“The Fear Box” is a psychological horror performance about a museum of curiosities. However, the exhibits turn out to be more than your everyday pieces as they represent different phobias. Some of these phobias include, but are not limited to, claustrophobia, and arachnophobia.
With heartwarming stories typically seen in theatre becoming more popular, director Sophia Weaver felt that there was a need for something a bit scarier at SUU.
“I feel like there has always been a spectrum of theatre in which a show should be either funny or dramatic. But who says theatre can’t be suspicious? Or confusing? Or more importantly, scary?” said Weaver.
The team involved with “The Fear Box” wants to challenge the idea of what theatre should be by expanding beyond what audiences may have seen.
“Playing with art that enhances feelings of fear is important for everyone, as it goes beyond the norm,” said Weaver. “There is a certain box that we artists find ourselves trapped in, and it is our job to aim our creativity towards a larger perspective and try things that we have never tried before.”
“The Fear Box” aims to expand ideas surrounding theatre, and its performance in the Black Box space allows for a close-up performance that permits audience members to feel more involved in the show. Although unorthodox, the goal to scare those in attendance will hopefully also attract those who want an “out of the box” experience .
Because “The Fear Box” delves into some thrilling territory, it includes content warnings for bright lights, loud noises, violence and depictions of death.
Tickets are $5 at the door, and the house will open shortly before the show begins, so make sure to get there on time.
Author: Shay Wilkey
Photos courtesy of Sophia Weaver
Editor: Tessa Cheshire
arts@suunews.net