Lorton — Halloween is just a few weeks away, so the Workhouse Arts Center is gearing

up for two events meant to bring haunting delight. First is the return of the annual “Madhaunter’s Madhouse Haunted Trail” with a preview opening on Sept. 29, 2017. Another special event to bring in Halloween is the live theater production of “Woman in Black.” This indoors live theater production begins on Oct. 21, 2017.

“We’re excited to have ‘Madhaunter’s Madhouse’ return,” said Frank Pappas, marketing director for the Workhouse. “This year’s ‘Madhouse’ features an almost-entirely redesigned haunted trail. We received lots of feedback from our guests from last year; and we listened. Guests will experience new special effects, including amazing fog and lasers.”

According to Pappas, there will also be four entirely new and “terrifying” scenes that have been built from scratch, including a gigantic haunted church, prison scene, and cabins, all featuring scare actors. A giant pallet maze has been reimagined. Guests are expected to encounter demonic clowns, prisoners, and ghosts and ghouls of all shapes and sizes.

The second Halloween-themed event is “Woman in Black” “a wonderfully

creepy ghost story that has all the right puzzle pieces for a thrilling night,” said Joseph Wallen, Director, Workhouse Performing Arts. “There is humor, a bit of sadness and an unnerving plot centered on the legend of an apparition.”

“The intimacy of the Workhouse theatre has a distinct advantage for ‘Woman in Black’s’ atmosphere and tricks used to tell this story. Things will literally happen right next to the audience,” added Wallen.

“Woman in Black” is based on Susan Hill's ghost story about a young lawyer who becomes obsessed with the belief that he has been cursed by a woman dressed in black. He is determined to rid himself of his growing fears. He begins investigating the history of the legend and tries to exorcise the terror that has taken hold of him. “He soon finds himself in the midst of true and absolute fear,” said Wallen.

“Woman in Black” is directed by Jason Krage (Workhouse’s “Solitary Confinement”). It features Casey Fero (Workhouse’s “Cabaret”) and Anthony Williams (Workhouse’s “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”).

So, do get ready as Halloween is not so far away. And be at the Workhouse for two thrilling October events with plenty of Halloween haunting specters.

Where & When

• Workhouse Arts Center presents the “Madhaunter’s Madhouse Haunted Trail” at 9518 Workhouse Road, Lorton. Trail is open Sept. 29-30, 7-10 p.m. (Preview weekend, $15). Oct. 6-7; Oct. 13-14, Oct. 20-21, from 7-11 p.m., Oct. 22 from 7-10 p.m., Oct. 27-28 from 7-11 p.m. Oct. 29 and Oct. 31 from 7-10 p.m. Tickets: $20. Visit www.workhousearts.org or call 703-584-2900. Note: The trail is primarily outdoors, so guests should dress for their comfort based on the weather, but also keep in mind there will be mud and grass. A typical visit might be 20 to 30 minutes.

• Workhouse Arts Center presents “Woman in Black” at The Workhouse, W-3 Theatre, 9518 Workhouse Road, Lorton. Performances: Oct. 21, 2017 to Nov. 5, 2017. Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets: $20-$30. Visit www.workhousearts.org or call 703-584-2900. Note: There is also a separately ticketed VIP Pre-Show Lounge Access available with “Woman in Black.” For information about the VIP pre-show call 703-584-2900 or visit www.workhousearts.org.