Theatre Works Premieres THE DESPERATE HOURS, 1/28-2/13

Fans of CSI and Law & Order will love the crime drama THE DESPERATE HOURS.  THE DESPERATE HOURS is a story of a home invaded by three escaped criminals and of civilized people being driven to violence.  Written by Joseph Hayes THE DESPERATE HOURS was based on his 1954 thriller novel of the same title and was the basis for the films The Desperate Hours in 1955 and Desperate Hours in 1990.  Winner of 2 Tony Awards this production takes a fresh approach to a classic, exciting crime drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat!  Performing on the Mary Jane Gyder Main Stage THE DESPERATE HOURS will run January 28th - February 13th, 2011. 

 Follow what happens when an ordinary family living in a Midwest suburb is invaded by a trio of escaped criminals. The Hilliards are a typical family living on the outskirts of Indianapolis; abruptly, their pleasant home becomes a jungle full of cunning and violence. Examine the clash of wills between the forces representing good and evil: Dan Hilliard, the husband and father who has to keep the situation calm for the sake of his wife and two children; and Glenn Griffin, the leader of the criminals, bent on revenge against the policeman who arrested him and willing to do whatever it takes to secure his freedom. 
 
THE DESPERATE HOURS is directed by Jerry Morrison.  Mr. Morrison has a MFA in Directing from Baylor University and has directed, performed in and/or produced over one hundred productions.  Most recent directing credits include the Los Angeles Equity waiver production of Earth and Sky; The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) and the musical murder mystery comedy Something's Afoot at Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, MI.

  Photo Credits: Veronica Carmack (Eleanor Hillard), Phillip Herrington (Glenn Griffin), Tom Koelbel (Dan Hillard) Photographer: Arthur Zatarski

Tickets are now on sale both online at theaterworks.org and at the Peoria Center for the Performing Arts.  The Box Office is open from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily and may be reached at 623-815-7930.  THE DESPERATE HOURS performs January 28th - February 13th.  Tickets are only $33.00 / adult and $23.00 / student (prices include service and processing fees).  Theater Works is located in the Peoria Center for the Performing Arts (the theater with the copper roof) at 8355 W Peoria Avenue, Peoria.