The mystery thriller ''The Woman in Black'' opens Friday at the Youngstown Playhouse.
Stephen Mallatratt's play is based on the novel of the same name by Susan Hill, which also inspired the film starring Daniel Radcliffe that was released earlier this year. However, the play takes the story in a different direction.
In the stage version, a a lawyer hires an actor to tutor him in recounting to family and friends a story that has long troubled him concerning events that transpired when he attended the funeral of an elderly recluse. There he caught sight of the woman in black. The mere mention of her terrifies the locals because, according to legend, she is a specter who haunts the neighborhood where her illegitimate child was accidentally killed. Anyone who sees her dies.
The lawyer invites some friends to watch as he and the actor recreate the events of that dark and stormy night.
Candace DiLullo directs a cast featuring David El'Hatton, James Hain and Victoria Lubonovich.
''The Woman in Black'' will be staged at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday through Oct. 28 at the Playhouse, 600 Playhouse Lane, Youngstown. A special Halloween performance also is scheduled at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 31. Tickets are $17 for adults, $14 for students and senior citizens ad $10 for children ages 12 and younger. For reservations or more information, call 330-788-8739.