Embrace the Spooky Side of Christmas with The Coil Project

Strange Tales VI: The Strangest Holiday Special (N)ever

In this production by The Coil Project, four playlets of terror unfold. The tone is consistent throughout, with a touch of Grand Guignol and a hint of The Twilight Zone. Director Michael Silver keeps the audience on the edge of their seats as they are transported to a world of macabre humor.

One playlet features Eric Cline as Drew in 'Roasting Chestnuts'. Drew plans to meet a local bartender while his wife is away, but is haunted by a disembodied Voice. The Voice plays with Drew, testing his beliefs and putting his life in danger. Cline's performance is captivating, as he goes from bemused to frightened throughout the scene.

Merry Christmas, Dolley Madison

In this play, we meet three ghosts living in the White House - Dolley Madison, Abigail Adams, and Andrew Jackson. Each has their own struggles and personalities, and their interactions are both entertaining and infuriating. Thomas Howley as Jackson is particularly entertaining, with his belligerent attitude.

Amanda Zeitler Rosenke as Dolley Madison shines with strength and sophistication. She quietly endures Jackson's interruptions and shows a sure sense of her own worth. The episode ends with a coda that unites past and present, adding an extra layer of depth to the story.

The Stars Look Very Different Today

Set in a galaxy far, far away, this play follows Orbach and Ray as they work as sentries at a mysterious station. Orbach, the new recruit, is nervous and sincere, while Ray is grizzled and cynical. As they face The Threshold, a portal to another world, their beliefs and fates are put to the test.

Joseph Wilson as Orbach and Jenny Oberholtzer as Ray develop an understated camaraderie that keeps them going in the face of danger. Their performances add depth and emotion to the story, making the audience care about their fate.

Where Is Remy Houseman?

Addison, played by Sarah Keisler, is a True Crime Influencer who is on a mission to find Remy Houseman. Her story is engaging and exuberant, but as the mystery unfolds, it becomes clear that nothing is as it seems. Keisler's performance is captivating, keeping the audience hooked from start to finish.

Addison promotes her sponsor, Silver Scorpion, a handmade jewelry designer. Her boyfriend also plays a role in the story, adding an extra layer of complexity. In the end, the denouement is satisfyingly spooky, leaving the audience with a sense of unease.

Sound Designer Taylor Stewart brings a range of holiday music, from cheerful to dark, adding to the atmosphere of the production. Lighting Designer Demetrius Sadler and Fight Choreographer Patrick Mullen add their talents to the madness, making each scene come to life.

Running Time: Approximately 90 minutes, no intermission. Strange Tales VI: The Strangest Holiday Special (N)ever plays Fridays and Saturdays through December 21, 2024, presented by The Coil Project at Capitol Hill Arts Workshop (CHAW), 545 7th Street SE, Washington, DC. Tickets ($25 plus fees) are available online.