Hanging judges, cursed colonels, haunted hallways at The Gables

For those who like a little fact with their fright, a little history with their hi-jinx, head for The House of the Seven Gables in October where truth is always stranger than fiction. On select pweekend nights, two original theatrical events are staged in The House of the Seven Gables and the Nathaniel Hawthorne Birthplace. Each performance lasts 35 minutes and they begin every 5 or 10 minutes between 8 and 10:30 p.m. (7 and 9 p.m. on October 31). Tickets for individual shows or combination tickets for both performances are available. During the day, tours tip gently toward the dark side as visitors brave the Secret Staircase and marvel at a way of life long since passed. Daytime hours at The Gables are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Theatrical performances Legacy of the Hanging Judge In 1692 the Salem Witch Trials wrought havoc on a small New England community. “Legacy of the Hanging Judge” replays the events in the words of those who lived through the harrowing times —and those who did not fare as well. The performances take place in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s birth house. Prepare to be interrogated by magistrate John Hathorne, Nathaniel Hawthorne's great-great grandfather, infamous for his role in the condemnation and deaths of accused witches. Encounter the tormented, the accused and their accusers in this interactive theatrical experience. Beware. You may find yourself accused of "writing in the devil's book!" October 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, and 29 from 8 to 10:30 p.m. October 31 from 7 to 9 p.m. Performances begin every ten minutes in The Nathaniel Hawthorne birth house and last approximately 35 minutes. Last performance begins at closing. Advance ticket purchase highly recommended. Visit 7gables.org for information and tickets. Spirits of the Gables Guilt! Greed! Revenge! Step into the world of Nathaniel Hawthorne's “House of the Seven Gables.” Watch as his troubled characters haunt the mansion’s halls, entangled in a family curse. Matthew Maule condemns Colonel Pyncheon with words that become his fate — "God will give you blood to drink!" Creep through The Gables at your own risk, for as long as there is a Pyncheon descendant inside, legend has it, only darkness and death will fill its walls. October 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, and 29 from 8 to 10:30 p.m. October 31 from 7 to 9 p.m. Performances begin every five minutes in The House of the Seven Gables and last approximately 35 minutes. Last performance begins at closing. Advance ticket purchase highly recommended. Visit 7gables.org for information and tickets Rates Tickets for each of the plays is $15 or $28 for a combination ticket. The combination ticket is available for any two performances on the same evening. Advance ticket purchase highly recommended. Visit 7gables.org for information and tickets. October hours at The Gables Daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Please check www.7gables.com to confirm hours. 115 Derby St. Salem MA 01970 978-744-0991 www.7gables.org Visit New England's oldest timber-framed mansion built in 1668. Discover the surprises in The House of the Seven Gables including colorful Georgian interiors and a climb up the secret staircase. Admission also includes guided tours through The Gables, a visit to The Hawthorne House, birthplace of Nathaniel Hawthorne, author of "The House of the Seven Gables,” a stroll through The Gables’ beautiful seaside gardens, and a visit to the unique 1655 Museum Store. Some parking available.