A waning Hunter’s moon and a sky full of stars loomed over Fred B. Cranford Amphitheatre in Valdese on a recent October evening as the Old Colony Players presented their chilling adaptation of “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” Directed by Ken Davis, the play incorporates a malevolent version of the Headless Horseman entwined with historical events like the Salem witch trials and Benedict Arnold's treason. CJ Walker shines as Ichabod Crane, Samantha Morgan captivates as Katrina Von Tassel, and the standout performance of the night belongs to the terrifying Headless Horseman, portrayed by both Thomas “Colt” Taylor and the skilled Hannah Parker. This frightful production is not for the faint-hearted and is a must-see for those seeking a spine-tingling theatrical experience.

Valdese's Old Colony Players premiered their 2024 season of the historical drama "From This Day Forward" on July 12. The play, now in its 56th consecutive season, tells the story of the Waldensian people and their journey from Europe to Burke County, where they founded the town of Valdese in 1893. The play will continue each Friday and Saturday through Aug. 10. Showtime is 8 p.m. at the Fred B. Cranford Amphitheatre, 401 Church St. NW in Valdese. Purchase tickets on the play's website at oldcolonyplayers.com/outdoor-drama. Look for a review of the play in next week's A&E section of The Paper.