Marquette will soon host a production of Misery, the Stephen King Misery play, at the Peter White Public Library starting February 16. This collaboration between IronArts Theatre and the library will offer audiences a suspenseful theatrical experience over three evenings, highlighting a story known for almost 40 years across multiple formats.
Library and IronArts Theatre Launch New Creative Partnership
The shows will run from 6 p.m. February 16 through 18 at the library. This marks the first joint effort between the Peter White Public Library (PWPL) and IronArts Theatre, both eager to expand arts and culture in Marquette. The play is directed by Leslie Parkonen and features a strong local cast bringing King’s psychological thriller to life.
The partnership came about somewhat unexpectedly. Marty Achatz, the PWPL Adult Programming Coordinator, met director Leslie Parkonen casually at a local venue, the Ore Dock, where she shared her desire to stage Misery.
“I said I might have a place, and we started talking,”
Achatz recalled.
“We are thrilled to be partnering with IronArts Theatre to bring Stephen King’s iconic story to the Peter White stage.”
Marty Achatz, PWPL Adult Programming Coordinator
Achatz suggested moving the staging to Valentine’s Day weekend, a fitting choice because the story centers on a writer and his obsessive fan, reflecting a twisted form of love.
“From the original novel to the Oscar-winning film adaptation and Tony-nominated Broadway production, Misery has been terrifying audiences for close to 40 years. I think the community is in for a miserably great ride.”
Marty Achatz, PWPL Adult Programming Coordinator
With the library providing the venue, the IronArts team agreed to bring their production especially for this event, hoping to create a foundation for future collaborations.
“She went back to the board at IronArts theatre and pitched doing the show here at the library, and it progressed from there … I’m hoping this is the first of many collaborations.”
Marty Achatz, PWPL Adult Programming Coordinator
Story Synopsis and Key Cast Members
Misery follows Paul Sheldon, a successful romance novelist who suffers a serious car accident and wakes up confined by Annie Wilkes, a nurse who claims to be his biggest fan but quickly reveals darker intentions. The tension and psychological complexity have made this a gripping tale since its first appearance in 1987.
In this production, Adam Maslak plays Paul Sheldon, while Jessica Red Bays portrays the chilling character of Annie Wilkes. Mike Fishman also appears as Sheriff Buster, rounding out the talented yet intimate cast that delivers powerful performances suited to the show’s intense nature.
Director’s Perspective on Bringing Misery to Life
Director Leslie Parkonen brings a personal connection to this production, having been involved with IronArts Theatre since her teenage years. She describes Misery as more than just a thriller; at its core, it’s about obsession and power within a confined setting.
“Misery is a psychological thriller, but at its core it’s about obsession and power. It’s intimate, it’s unsettling. And I knew the people chosen for the cast would blow it out of the water.”
Leslie Parkonen, Director
Parkonen has placed great trust in her cast, praising their commitment and passion, which makes the project deeply meaningful both to her and to the community supporting the arts.
“Directing ‘Misery’ has been an act of trust in remarkable actors who bring their whole hearts to the stage. To see that passion support the Peter White Public Library and especially Peninsula Arts Appreciation Council/IronArts, a place that has given me so much, makes this experience profoundly personal and deeply meaningful.”
Leslie Parkonen, Director
Local Arts Leaders Praise the Production
IronArts President Rusty Bowers expressed admiration for Leslie Parkonen’s long-standing contributions to the local arts scene. Many involved in this project have connections to the Vista Theater in Negaunee and have consistently helped strengthen Marquette County’s artistic community.
“Leslie is a talented director, actor and vocalist who has actively supported PAAC and IronArts for decades. Everyone involved in this production has ties to the Vista Theater in Negaunee and a history of lending their talent to important productions that will continue to elevate the arts in Marquette County.”
Rusty Bowers, IronArts President
Audience Advisory and Ticket Information
Due to its mature language and intense scenes, Misery is not recommended for children. However, audiences of adult age can expect an engaging show that combines suspense with moments of dark humor and humanity.
“It’s tense, gripping, darkly funny and human. Even if you know the story from the book, you’ll still be surprised.”
Leslie Parkonen, Director
Tickets for the performances are priced at $5 each and are available for purchase at the Peter White Public Library circulation desk. All proceeds will support programming at the library, IronArts Theatre, and the Vista Theatre, reinforcing the vitality of arts in the region.
