“Headless” adaptation alive at USU

Sleepy Hollow holds a legend that is truly American and, as Utah State Theatre hopes to show in their upcoming stage adaptation, truly Halloween.

The tale first saw life as a book written by Washington Irving published in 1819. Though based on a German folktale that makes use of the headless horseman image, Irving planted the story in American roots placing the unforgettable Ichabod Crane in upstate New York shortly after the American Revolution.

Adapted for the stage by local actor, playwright and director Vosco W. Call, Utah State Theatre’s version of “The Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow” focuses less on the dark, homicidal maniac on his crazed horse and more on a family adventure that takes place on the edge of ambiguity and All Hallow’s Eve.

“Everyone can identify with this story,” theatre education major Nick Hutchinson said. Hutchinson, who is playing Ichabod Crane, said that the production captures the tale’s ghost story feeling, while making sure to include the tale’s more adult overtones, such as the threat of progress and change and how to find love in a new place.

“Everyone will be able to find someone that they can identify with in this show, whether it is the kids in Ichabod’s school, the rogue Brom Bones, or even the dirt farmers,” Hutchinson said.

Though he couldn’t reveal the specific special effects, Hutchinson said UST has done a wonderful job of making the Headless Horseman headless.

The production begins life on Oct. 15 with two performances at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. There will be one additional showing on Monday, Oct. 17 at 7:30 p.m. The show is open to all patrons over the age of 5. USU students are admitted free with a valid ID. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for children 12 and under. There is also a package deal of $12 for a family of four and. The show is also being presented in local elementary schools. For more information, call (435)797-9615.

-mattgo@cc.usu.edu