BroadwayWorld’s Theresa Bertram Calls ACT’s MISERY “A Deliciously Intense Night of Theatre”
BroadwayWorld’s Theresa Bertram attended the first preview of ACT’s Misery and came away calling it “a deliciously intense night of theatre” — and, for fans of psychological thrillers, “the show to see.”
Her review praises the performances, the physical tension of the production, and the technical work that makes the world of Misery feel so immediate.
“This woman is a powerhouse!”
Bertram singles out Mary Twedt’s performance as Annie Wilkes, calling her “terrifying, unpredictable, and wickedly entertaining.”
“Twedt doesn’t simply play Annie Wilkes—she is Annie Wilkes!”
For audiences who know Twedt from decades of work on Arkansas stages, public radio, and beyond, Misery offers the chance to see her take on one of Stephen King’s most iconic characters at close range.
Bertram also highlights Coburn Goss’ performance as Paul Sheldon, praising the physical detail of his work and the way his reactions reveal Paul’s pain, fear, and determination even in silence.
She also reflects on seeing Goss as an actor after knowing him primarily through his leadership as ACT’s Artistic Director:
“I already admired Goss for his leadership at ACT, but now I have a whole new appreciation for his talents as a performer.”
That dual perspective makes Misery a particularly special opportunity to see the artist behind ACT’s artistic leadership back onstage.
The Whole Production Gets Its Moment
Jason Scott Morgan is praised for the quiet precision of his work as Buster, especially as the character begins piecing together what is really happening inside Annie’s home.
And the design team gets its own standout moment.
“Another star of the show? The rotating stage!”
Bertram praises the scenic design by Brandon P. Eells and Jon Hatton and also highlights the work of Mike Stacks, Scott Minor, Lauren Nicholas, Shelly Hall, and Brett Ihler, noting that the technical elements work with the performers to make the production’s frightening moments believable.
Her overall verdict:
“I loved every nerve-racking minute of this play!”
READ THE FULL BROADWAYWORLD REVIEW: Read Theresa Bertram’s full review
Misery runs October 14–November 1, 2026, at Argenta Contemporary Theatre in North Little Rock.
Previews: October 14–15VIP Opening Night: Friday, October 16 at 7 PM
Content Warning: Misery contains strong language, violence, and disturbing situations.
Backstage Tours
For Misery, ACT is introducing a new post-show backstage tour experience for $10 per person. The tour invites audiences onto the stage after the performance for a closer look at how the production works.
Guests will explore the show’s motorized revolve, which rotates among three principal spaces: the bedroom, kitchen, and front porch. The tour also includes a look at props and furniture storage, how scenic transitions are accomplished, the production’s special-effects blood, and other technical elements used to create the world of Misery. Each tour concludes with an informal Q&A.
The new experience gives audiences a closer look at the collaboration, craftsmanship, and technical problem-solving behind the production.
Content Warning: Misery contains strong language, violence, and disturbing situations.
About Argenta Contemporary Theatre
Argenta Contemporary Theatre creates bold, contemporary live performances in the heart of North Little Rock’s Argenta Arts District. Through professional quality productions, new creative partnerships, and education programs for students and adults, ACT brings artists and audiences together around stories that entertain, challenge, and connect our community.
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