‘Clue On Stage’ a comedy ‘whodunit’
Chico Theater Company opens a theater mystery, “Clue On Stage,” on Oct. 1st which runs to Oct. 24. It will have audiences puzzled, cautious and howling with laughter. “Clue On Stage” is a 1985 American comedy mystery film by Jonathan Lynn based on a board game of the same name.
Under the direction of David Bristow, assisted by Randy Ross and produced by Marc Edson, this Chico Theater Company murder mystery is a familyfriendly comedy which will entertain audiences of all ages. It is best for teens and older.
“I am so excited to be chosen to direct ‘Clue On Stage,'” said the director Bristow. “Blessed with a talented ensemble cast, I have had so much fun seeing it all come together. The script is as unique as it is adapted directly from the movie screenplay. All of the same colorful characters and some new ones as well. Set in the ominous Boddy Manor, the guests are summoned to a mysterious dinner party and the game is afoot. It is a hilarious, fast paced and it redefines the word ‘whodunit.'
The “Clue On Stage” storyline centers on murders by unusual suspects. It covers arguments over servitude to pay debts, clashes over missing funds, love triangles, romantic trysts, seductions and murder.
The play takes place in 1954 in a secluded New England mansion where six strangers are invited. They are met by Wadsworth the butler (Denver Nash) and Yvette the maid (Sierra Lawler).
Each guest is given a pseudonym: Colonel Mustard (Bill Harrington), Mrs. White (Jennifer Horn), Mrs. Peacock (Christi Harrington), Mr. Green (Justin McDavitt), Professor Plum (Nick Reiner) and Miss Scarlet (Kasandra Partain). Another guest, Mr. Boddy (Justin Daugherty), arrives and Wadsworth reveals he has been blackmailing the others.
Threatening to expose the guests if he is arrested, Mr. Boddy gives them each a weapon, demanding that someone kill Wadsworth, and he turns out the lights. A gunshot rings out, and the lights are turned on to reveal Mr. Boddy dead.
The cook (J.J. Hunt) is found dead, stabbed by a dagger. A stranded motorist arrives (Julia Thompson) and is locked in the lounge. Next, a police officer (Gerald Thompson) arrives, investigating the motorist's abandoned car and to use the phone. A singing telegram girl (Chloe Robinson) adds to the confusion.
How does all this happen? Audiences are encouraged to attend “Clue On Stage” and try to decide the outcome.
Tickets for this nonmusical comedy are $20 adults, $18 seniors, $16 youth. For information and ticket purchases call Chico Theater Company box office 894-3282 or visit www.chichtheater.com.
“I am so excited to be chosen to direct ‘Clue On Stage’.” — David Bristow