Willowbrook to present winter play, ‘Wait Until Dark’

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Willowbrook Theatre invites all students, parents/guardians, alumni, staff, community members and friends to experience a thriller that will leave audience members sitting on the edge of their seats when the school presents its winter play, “Wait Until Dark.”

According to https://www.hillbarntheatre.org/wait-until-dark/#, “… this classic play centers on Susan Hendrix, a blind woman who becomes the target of a group of ruthless criminals searching for a mysterious doll filled with contraband. As the tension mounts and the stakes grow higher, Susan must use her wits and courage to outmaneuver her dangerous adversaries in a heart-pounding battle of wits.”

“If you really analyze the show, it has a lot of meaningful lessons and opens your eyes to the world,” said Willowbrook sophomore Kaye Valencia, who plays Susan’s young neighbor, Gloria.

Willowbrook Theatre Director Sara Corkery said her goal is to balance the genres students are exposed to during their time at Willowbrook, and “Wait Unit Dark” allows them to experience a well-established play that has stood the test of time.

“In this age of taking pleasure in bullying, this production tells the story of a woman who uses her smarts to deal with the criminals,” Corkery said. “One of the core themes is you can overcome difficult and tough situations, if you use your head and resources and don’t give up.”

Corkery added the plot is filled with mystery, danger and twists, and its unique nature will keep audience members engaged and entertained.  

Willowbrook seniors Gillian Falco (who plays Susan) and Eddie Devens (who plays one of the criminals, Mike Talman) said the show is composed of complex characters and an intricate set. It also features action scenes, including falls, which were coordinated by fight choreographer Andrew Trygstad.

“The focus is to make the action as realistic as possible, while mitigating the risk and making sure we’re telling the story,” Trygstad said.

“Wait Until Dark”

When: 7 p.m. on Feb. 6, 7 and 8, 2025

Where: Willowbrook High School, 1250 S. Ardmore Ave. in Villa Park

Tickets: 

• $10 for adults (13 years old and older)
  
  
• $5 for children (12 years old and younger)
  
  
• Free for those with a District 88 student ID or a District 88 Senior Gold Card
  
  
• Family passes will be accepted
  
  
• Tickets can be ordered online (scan the QR code on the poster above, or go to https://willowbrooktheatre.ludus.com/index.php)
  
  
• Tickets also will be available to buy at the box office (one hour before the performances)

For questions or more information: Contact Willowbrook Theatre Director Sara Corkery at scorkery@dupage88.net

Important note: This production contains sensitive imagery.