When Rivertown Theatre Productions presents its annual Haunted Lantern Tour, expect a mix of history and spookiness. "This year's tour is very unique in the fact that it's not as lighthearted and lively as our themes have been in the past," said Sara Mimnall, owner of Rivertown Theatre Productions and producer and director of the tour. "While there are moments of comedic relief, the tour has a very mournful vibe."

The tour, called "The Afflicted," will be offered on Fridays, Oct. 18 and 25; Saturdays, Oct. 19 and 26; and Sunday, Oct. 20. Tours will run every half hour beginning at 6:30 p.m. with the final tour stepping off at 9:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 8 p.m. on Sundays. Attendees will meet at St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church, 616 Locust St., Columbia, and will travel through Mount Bethel Cemetery.

"The title and theme of this year's tour, 'The Afflicted,' really encapsulates all of the personalities and stories our guests will encounter this year," shared Mimnall, who writes an original script for each year's tour. "Attendees will be introduced to characters whose lives were shaped by history's cruel whims. ... We really dive deep into the core of human emotion, exploring the agonies of love, loss, longing and grief." The production will feature 26 actors who portray various characters.

The one-hour walking tour will immerse people in an otherworldly realm, she said. "The cast does a phenomenal job of portraying an array of characters sharing the tragedies of their past lives that bind them to our tangible world," Mimnall explained. "These vividly rendered encounters weave history with the supernatural, challenging your perception of life and death, making this tour the perfect combination of historical education and spooky entertainment."

Mimnall emphasized that the tour is not a horror attraction. Instead, it is focused on history. "Patrons are guided through the winding pathways of Mount Bethel Cemetery, guided by lantern light," she explained. "With the assistance of the costumed actors who portray ghosts from the past, attendees are able to experience history as if it's taking place right in that very moment. It's a great experience for avid theatregoers, history buffs, lovers of all things spooky, and even those that are just looking to experience something new. I strongly encourage everyone to attend Columbia's Haunted Lantern Tour at least once. We change the theme of the performance every year, incorporating an original script, new characters and a fresh storyline, so returning patrons can enjoy a unique experience every time they participate."

This year's event particularly stands out, she said. "While every tour is unique in its own way, the rarity of the way this tour is presented is truly one-of-a-kind," she shared. "We certainly have never presented a production quite like this."

Proceeds from the lantern tours are used to support the nonprofit Rivertown Theatre Productions, which is staffed and operated by volunteers. "After subtracting the production costs, profits from the annual tour are returned to different areas of the community, including small businesses, nonprofit groups, local churches, other theater programs and community events," Mimnall said. "Our goal is to educate and entertain by bringing (Columbia's) unique and powerful history to life."

A cash concession stand will be available at the tour. All tours are rain or shine. Tickets may be purchased by calling Holly at 717-587-5368.