The Man-Beast: A Horror Play (Stage Fright Collection)

A Gothic drama set in the eerie twilight of 18th century France, where terror roams the wilds and a sinister legend springs to life.

For three years, the fearsome Beast of Gévaudan has prowled the dense forests, leaving a trail of over a hundred victims in its wake. The terrorized populace was gripped by fear until one man, an outcast forester, emerged from the shadows claiming victory over a monstrous, wolf-like creature. When he presents a hideous, wolf-like corpse to King Louis, the kingdom rejoices, believing the nightmare to be over.

But the forester's tale is shrouded in secrets. Amidst the whispers of the woods, he never speaks of the enigmatic woods-witch who crossed his path, nor her dark, otherworldly influence on his hunt. As the chilling truth unfurls, The Man-Beast delves into a Gothic drama where the lines between man and monster blur, and the sinister legacy of the Beast is revealed.

Prepare to be captivated by Joseph Zettelmaier's spine-tingling play, where myth and reality entwine in a gripping tale of horror, mystery, and the supernatural. Will the forester's courage be enough to face the true nature of the Beast, or will the lurking shadows of the forest claim yet another soul?

"The most emotionally interiorized of Zettelmaier's horror tales. Few demons are more horrifying than the memories, fears and resentments we host inside our heads." - Chicago Tribune

"A battle of wit and affection and intimidation.You know this match must finish. And you know there can only be one winner. But the duel itself is so mesmerizing, you never want it to end." - Cincinnati Enquirer

"Zettelmaier creates tantalizing stories." - Chicago Sun-Times