The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940, at On Pitch Performing Arts in Layton is not a musical, but it definitely is a comedy. Similar to Clue, they gather people together (supposedly for an audition) but they’re really trying to find the murderer from three years before. Set in a library, at midnight (naturally), slapstick, witty dialogue, and fun characters make for a fun night.
In the cozy black box at OPPA, the seating is comfortable, updated, and the perfect size for a mystery. Director Dan Tate, (who also did Sound Design) keeps the pace tight, which, because we were in the cozy space, made me feel like I was IN the show.
Set Designer Brandon Stauffer created the inventive set, complete with secret entrances, doors, and all we’d like to see in a murder mystery.
Eddie, played by Kris Crowl (who also did music composition), is so believable–with his accent and timing. He was my definite favorite. Eddie, a failing comic, is funny because he isn’t–if that makes sense. Elsa, played by Kara Bechtel –has great presence and has excellent line delivery. With her larger part, she does a lot to carry the show. Elsa is the hostess of the event, and Bechtel is very good in this role. Helsa, played by Conner Blankman, a bearded man, is in drag. With his high heels and high voice he looks fetching–but the beard is the only reason why you’d think he was male. Helsa is the maid and his costume (costumes by Amanda Larsen) help us identify him as a her. Blankman also plays the sisters to Helsa, as well. Confused? Don’t be. It’s all in fun.
Kelly (Curtis Waite) plays a character that I won’t reveal. He’s incognito and I’m leaving it that way. But he’s fun and entertaining. O’Reilly (Joe Badger) is another character who has a surprise at the end. His Irish accent is authentic and Badger really sells his character. Ken (Darren Maxfield) is the director of the show and is confident, with very strong movement, and is very convincing.
Nikki (Zipporah Copas) is the youngest person in the cast, who is auditioning for the role in the show. Her character is more serious and at the end you find out why. She looks fabulous in her polka-dot dress and red heels. I liked Marjorie (Caitlin Olsen) and her line: “it’s simply devoon”, is well, divine. (I find myself using it, to be honest.) Regina (April Daw) is the playwright and Bernice (Marinda Maxfield) is the lyricist. Regina is the vamp and is after all the men. She even gooses the director, and because she’s also my neighbor, it was fun to see her in this role. I loved Bernice, whose almost constant drinking makes her drunkenness really fun, even when she really falls apart. She never breaks character.
Lighting (Brandon Stauffer) and Sound (Dan Tate) is critical in this scary-ish show. Many blackouts, a storm (of course), and the 40s radio music keeps us the moment. And in the small space, no mics! It’s always nice to be able to hear everyone and there are no mics to stop working.
I have already mentioned Stauffer’s excellent set design, but I need to really say more–it really is simply devoon. (see?) All the levels, all the surprises, and I felt like we were a part of it all. There was a line: “Nancy Drew would be proud of you for this house.” It made the experience for me really extraordinary.
And yes, I have been very vague with the plot–on purpose. No spoilers here. Just see the show.
Before the show opens, OPPA Executive Director Stauffer and Education Director Char Adams, share their motto: “Theater can change the world.” And that’s why we do this. We are changing the world.”
While it’s suggested that children 12 and up will enjoy this show, some kids are okay with this kind of genre, and the frequent black outs. Judge what your kids are ready for. It is a comedy, but it is, after all, about murder.
That being said, The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940 is one you don’t want to miss. Filled with slapstick, but with some sweet messages (a little love story), and some moments that will really get you laughing, get to On Pitch Performing Arts in Layton and see this show.
On Pitch Performing Arts presents The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940 by John Bishop.
On Pitch Performing Arts, 587 N Main St, Layton, UT 84041
April 12-27, 2019 Monday, Fri-Sat 7:30 PM
Tickets: $12-15
Contact: 385-209-1557
On Pitch Performing Arts Facebook Page
The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940 at OPPA!
0 Comments