Radio Mystery Theater Triptych For a Witch Episode 0371

Episode 0371 "Triptych For a Witch"

Original Airdate: October 30, 1975

Written by Ian Martin, Directed by Himan Brown, Host: E.G. Marshall

A triptych is defined in Webster's unabridged dictionary as a picture or carving in three parts, side by side, especially an altarpiece consisting of a central panel and two flanking panels that fold over it. Thus by definition it represents a sacred figure, and usually three aspects of that figure. This story concerns a triptych that represents a wholly profane and baleful figure in all its different aspects.

In many cultures the aged had a function and were treated with reverence and respect. Less and less this is true of the Occidental cultures. I enter no discussion of whether this is right or wrong. Frequently the elderly would prefer to be left alone to pursue their own destinies. And yet when the moment comes and some very ancient relative is left alone, particularly a woman, Some atavistic instinct, or is it just plain guilt, drives many of us to open at least our homes, if not wholly our hearts, to them. This is the story of two such people. But may heaven protect you from the strange and awful experience they unwittingly laid themselves open to.

Masquerading as an elderly and widowed distant relative, a witch and her strange pets move in with a young couple who have been recently married. As time goes by however, the husband begins to suspect she is not who she appears to be.

Starring: Margaret Hamilton*, Kristopher Tabori, Robert Hammond, Joan Lovejoy

*Margaret Hamilton is well known for her role as The Wicked Witch of the West from the 1939 Classic "The Wizard of Oz"