Big Dawg Theatre Company Revives Audience Favorite The Hermit of Fort Fisher
A Wilmington theatrical tradition returns to the stage at Thalian Hall

WILMINGTON, NC — Big Dawg Theatre Company will present a revival of
The Hermit of Fort Fisher, the beloved play by David Wright, running
April 2–5 and April 9–12 at Thalian Hall’s Red Box Theater. This
production will be directed by Steve Vernon, and will star Woody Stefl
as The Hermit, featuring Eben French Mastin (who played The Hermit in
almost 50 previous performances).

Based on the fascinating true story of Robert Harrill, the man known
as the “Hermit of Fort Fisher,” the play tells the story of the
coastal recluse who lived alone in a World War II bunker near Fort
Fisher for 17 years. Harrill became a regional legend as thousands of
curious visitors sought him out, drawn by his unconventional lifestyle
and philosophical outlook on life.

This upcoming production marks the sixth time Big Dawg Theatre Company
has produced the play, which has become a favorite among Wilmington
audiences. Each previous run has sold out, making early reservations
strongly recommended.

The Hermit of Fort Fisher explores themes of independence, human
connection, and the ways a single individual can capture the
imagination of a community. Through storytelling and reflection, the
play brings to life a figure whose presence along the Cape Fear coast
has remained part of local folklore for decades.

Performances will take place in Thalian Hall’s Red Box Theater,
located at 310 Chestnut Street in historic downtown Wilmington.