Get ready for an evening of laughter and suspense. The Playhouse at McConnellstown is delighted to announce its upcoming production of John Bishop's uproarious play, "The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940." This delightful blend of comedy and mystery is set to captivate audiences June 6 through June 15.
Step back in time to December 1940. An eccentric theatre financier has gathered a creative team at her lavish New York mansion. Initially invited for a backer's audition for a new musical, the group soon finds themselves entangled in a web of intrigue, secrets, and murder. The lingering terror of the infamous "Stage Door Slasher," who struck during a previous ill-fated production, adds to the tension and hilarity as the guests try to navigate the treacherous circumstances.
"The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940" promises a delightful evening of theatrical fun, filled with witty dialogue, eccentric characters, and unexpected twists. This production, brought to life by the talented cast and crew of The Playhouse at McConnellstown, is sure to leave audiences entertained and guessing until the very end.
“It's a funny and entertaining mystery with a terrific cast,” commented Dan Weston, the show’s director.
The Playhouse at McConnellstown's production of "The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940" features a stellar cast, with each actor embodying their character with energy and flair. Get ready to be charmed and challenged by Oscar Pollock's portrayal of Helsa Wenzel, a maid with hidden depths. Anita Bowers embodies the eccentric arts patron, Elsa Von Grossenkneten. Colin Brislawn will keep you guessing as the determined undercover cop, Michael Kelly, while Clay Glenny juggles accents and intrigue as actor Patrick O’Reilly.
Tate Pollock delivers the delightful arrogance of director Ken De La Maize, and Abby Lambert captivates as Nikki Crandall, the chorus girl with more on her mind than just Broadway dreams. Elias Powell provides the comic relief as Eddie McCuen, the lovable, struggling comedian. Newcomer Elizabeth “Betsy” Happeny brings down the house as the boisterous producer, Marjorie Baverstock. Adding to the mix are Karen Kuntz as the sarcastic composer, Regina Hopewell, and Jen Powell as Bernice Roth, the lyricist whose creativity is matched only by her emotional volatility. This is a cast you won't soon forget!
“This is a fun twist on a murder mystery that will have folks second guessing and laughing hysterically the whole time,” added cast member Powell.
Behind the scenes, a talented creative team has worked diligently to bring the zany world of "The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940" to life on the Playhouse stage. The vision of Director Dan Weston, alongside Co-Director Kylee Roles, guides this madcap mystery. The visually engaging set design comes from the collaborative efforts of Don Dietz and Dan Weston. Jeanne Nagurny lends her artistic touch to the costumes, ensuring each character is dressed to impress (or perhaps deceive!). Lighting Designer Keith Sutton crafts the perfect atmosphere, and Rick Brown manages the crucial sound design. Providing technical assistance for the production is Barb Hughes.
The Playhouse, in partnership with several local food establishments, is excited to introduce Toast the Show: Themed Libations and Local Bites. This new collaboration provides a fun way for local food and beverage establishments to offer exciting new features during a Playhouse production run. For “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940,” patrons can expect exciting creations from Three Twelve Kitchen and Cocktails, Juniata Brewing Company, and Tastes of Home LLC.
Enhance your theatrical experience with special offerings from Three Twelve Kitchen and Cocktails. For the entree feature, they present "A Murder Most Fowl." Indulge in a delectable prosciutto-wrapped duck breast, expertly stuffed with ricotta, mushroom duxelle, and mozzarella, artfully presented on a crimson cherry splatter and accompanied by classic potatoes dauphinoise. It's a truly killer meal!
To complement your dish, savor Three Twelve’s cocktail feature: "The Casablanca" - a sophisticated blend of cognac and cardamom-orange simple syrup, served on the rocks with a twist of orange. A refined libation for the discerning theatre-goer.
Quench your thirst and sharpen your detective's senses with a Raspberry Wheat seasonal beer from Juniata Brewing Company. It’s lightly tart and slightly sweet—the perfect combination for cracking the case wide open! This refreshing brew is the perfect summertime companion. It’s currently on tap and will be for the season.
Indulge your sweet tooth with "The Crime Scene At the White House" from Tastes of Home LLC Bakery. This delectable creation features a creamy, no-bake cheesecake nestled in a sweet graham cracker crust, finished with a vibrant cherry topping. Treat yourself to a delicious piece of the mystery between May 30 and June 15!
“The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940” opens on June 6 and continues June 7,13, and 14 at 7:30 p.m. Sunday matinee showings are June 8 and 15 at 2:30 p.m. A special performance in partnership with the Huntingdon County Chamber of Commerce will be held June 20 at 7:30 pm.
Tickets for the standard performances of “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940” (June 6-15) can be purchased online via our secure LUDUS site: mcconnellstownplayhouse.ludus.com. Reservations can also be made by contacting the Playhouse Box Office at 814.627.0311. Ticket prices are $18 for regular admission and $16 for seniors (age 60 and older), students (age 6 and older), and military personnel. Payment options include cash, check, debit, or credit card.
Reservations for the Huntingdon County Chamber of Commerce performance on June 20 at 7:30 can be made by contacting MacKenzie Huntsman the Chamber via phone at 814.643.1110 or via email at mhuntsman@huntingdonchamber.com.
For more information about “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940” and other upcoming productions at The Playhouse at McConnellstown, please visit www.littletheater.com or follow us on Facebook.
