I had the pleasure of attending the opening night of Theatre 29’s production of “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” directed by Eric Ross.
Adapted for the stage by Hans and Peter Bloedel, the play is based on the classic gothic story by Washington Irving. Set in the late 18th Century, it tells the story of Ichabod Crane, the new schoolteacher of Sleepy Hollow who soon falls for the pranks, local beauty, and dark ghost tales that accompany his new home.
The dialogue of the play was entirely composed of rhyming sequences, which were impressively measured and well-delivered by the entire cast. Brief elements of song and dance elevated the storyline, all of which were accentuated by wit and cleverly placed slapstick humor. Dennis “Easy” Boos, Joe Rego, and Richard Zepeda all delivered notable one-liners that added a stroke of comedy to the spooky tale.
Ichabod Crane, played by Adam Shows, portrayed the enthusiastic schoolteacher with glee and humor. Sabrina Olsen’s Katrina Van Tassel was delightful as the sweet-natured beauty and held an endearing family bond with her parents, played by Rob Wanless and Sharianne Greer. Kevin Hayles was captivating as the elusive Cotton Mather, and Gabriel Figueredo’s Brom Bones was convincing in both his arrogance and his twist of charm in the final act. The traditional dynamic of a village, composed of different characters united by shared history, was evident and believable amongst the sizeable ensemble cast.
In theme with the season, the production was accompanied by a set and costume design that fit the timely, spooky tale. All costumes were aptly of the times, from bloomers to poet shirts and tricorne hats. The set easily gives the impression of a village, from a schoolroom to the chapel to a forest in late autumn. By the time the Headless Horseman makes his haunting debut, the audience will be fully immersed in the humor and horror that defines this tale.
With skillful actors, an impressive set design, and a fresh take on a classic ghost story, “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” is the perfect way to celebrate this autumn season in the hi-desert.
Performances of “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” run on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday; the show continues its run at Theatre 29 through October 27. Tickets can be purchased online at theatre29.org or by calling the Theatre 29 Box Office at 760-361-4151.
