Each Halloween season, Force of Nature Productions presents their signature ‘theatrical haunt’ series Fallen Saints. We got to preview the first scene of this year’s show, SALEM, at Midsummer Scream back in August, so were eagerly awaiting the rest of the story. SALEM (based on the Salem Witch Trials, as you might have guessed) poses the question – What’s worse: the unknown force causing terror in the small town of Salem…or the terror itself?

Written by Kerry Kazmierowicztrimm and directed by Sebastian Muñoz, SALEM is dark, tense, and (not surprisingly) relatable in our current climate. We’re introduced to Betty, the preacher’s daughter, shortly before a mysterious force begins to torment her. When she confides in her parents, they fear that it must be something unholy, and frantically gather the townspeople to assist in the ‘witchhunt.’ Things start to spiral out of control and we’re shown the truly terrifying consequences of combining desperation with fear of the unknown.

We always appreciate the quality when it comes to Force of Nature Productions, but this time they knocked it out of the park when it came to use of space and special effects. The set, lighting and sound design came together seamlessly, pulling us further into the narrative, as well as impressing us with some of the technical aspects of how it was accomplished. The ensemble’s performance was fierce, engaging and exciting, and we enjoyed feeling like we were a part of the action. SALEM was above and beyond what one would expect from a theatrical team of their size.

Fallen Saints: SALEM is the perfect Halloween treat for anyone looking for something seasonally dark and creepy that doesn’t include excessive gore or jump scares. You’ll have to act fast though as this is the final weekend, with 2 shows nightly this Friday and Saturday at Actors Workout Studio in NoHo. Tickets and more information can be found HERE.