As spooky season is upon us, the students of Lincoln County High School are hard at work bringing to the stage one of the most famous stories ever told from the perspective of the not-so-dearly departed: “Beetlejuice.” 

This story is a blend of irreverent hilarity, inevitable mortality and heartfelt compassion. (Note: No literal hearts were harmed during this production).

The story draws from the 1980s classic of the same name, which has become one of the most recognizable dark comedies of all time. In 2019, the movie was successfully adapted for the stage, and this play debuted on Broadway, where it continues to run to this day. 

If you haven’t seen the 1988 film, it focuses on the titular character, who describes himself as a bio-exorcist, and his interactions with the recently deceased Maitland couple and the Deetz family. After the Maitlands’ untimely demise, their home is inhabited by the Deetz, made up of the father (Charles), daughter (Lydia) and Charles’ recently acquired spouse (Delia). Lydia, played by Maggie Gloekner, is of particular interest to the pin-striped terror that is Beetlejuice because of her unhappy perspective on her new life and stepmother. But, with the help of the Maitlands, the young woman drives off the advances of Beetlejuice, played by Jackson Free, to hilarious results.

Mr. Jacob Lester, head of the Lincoln County High School drama department, shared that while the original movie and play contain some mature themes, the school’s production has been carefully adapted for all audiences. The performance will reflect the school-approved version, ensuring that all content is appropriate and family-friendly, while preserving the heart and humor of the story.

The play will run from Nov. 18 to 22, with a special 1 p.m. matinee on the 22nd.