"The Man Who Laughs" at The Players' Ring Theatre

PORTSMOUTH – Imagine stepping back to a time when films spoke without words — no color, no dialogue, just the expressive power of actors, the drama of live music, and the storytelling of title cards.

The Players’ Ring Theatre, in collaboration with Glass Dove Productions, is taking a bold step in bringing “The Man Who Laughs” to its stage in a world premiere play beginning October 17.

Adapted from the book by Victor Hugo, with inspiration from the 1928 homonymous film directed by Paul Leni, the idea came from Emily Karel, a Seacoast-based actor and producer.