Ridgewood Students To Perform Spooky, Satirical Brontë Play

RIDGEWOOD, NJ — Was author Emily Brontë a teenage necromancer? Ridgewood High School will tell you all about it in a play this week.

The show, "Emily Brontë, Teenage Necromancer," was described as "a wickedly entertaining collision of literary genius and supernatural chaos." It was written by acclaimed playwright Don Zolidis.

Running four nights — Oct. 23-26 — at the RHS Little Theater, the production promises "Gothic thrills, undead comedy, and the perfect dose of Halloween spirit."

In Zolidis's reimagining, a young Emily Brontë discovers she possesses the dark gift of necromancy—the ability to communicate with and raise the dead.

As her powers intensify, so does the absurdity, blending Brontëan melodrama with high school angst and zombie mayhem. The result is a coming-of-age comedy wrapped in smart Gothic satire.

"This play is a perfect blend of literary mischief, Halloween fun, and theatrical creativity," said director Stephanie Stearns Dulli. A devoted Halloween enthusiast, Dulli believes the show is an ideal match for Ridgewood's legendary autumn festivities.

"This town celebrates Halloween better than any place I've ever lived," she said, "and this show captures that playful, spooky energy perfectly. There's no better way to celebrate the season than with a play that brings the whole community together."

New Players Artistic Director Kelly Van Zile praised playwright Zolidis's unique gift for youth theater: "Don is brilliant at crafting stories that are both hilarious and accessible for young performers. Watching students of all ages tackle his work with such excitement is truly special."

The show features a dynamic cast of Ridgewood High School students performing alongside talented young actors from the district's elementary schools.

The first three shows will be performed in the evening, with a Saturday matinee. The Little Theater is located at 627 East Ridgewood Ave.

Tickets are available online at rhsnewplayers.com and at the door. Families are encouraged to attend, costumes welcome!