Clue successfully offers an evening of laughter, nostalgia, and surprises. Based on the 1985 classic film (as well as the popular board game), Clue retains the charm and absurdity that have endeared it to fans while injecting a fresh, energetic spirit into the live stage format. For audiences looking to experience an out of the gate slapstick murder mystery that never takes itself too seriously, this production hits all the right notes.
The play starts with the witty and highly energetic but very proper, Wadsworth (Jeff Skowron). He introduces the viewers to Boddy Manor and its guests for the evening. Hi-jinks come very soon after every introduction. Skowron brilliantly carries this first half with great comedic timing while sustaining the energy and keeping the audience engaged and intrigued. With Yvette, the maid (Elisabeth Yancey) by his side to add a bit of spice and velvet cushioning to his punchlines, this mystery starts on a high note.
As the guests of Boddy Manor fall in we start to put faces to the famous names of Colonel Mustard (John Treacy Egan), Mrs. White (Tari Kelly), Mrs. Peacock (Joanna Gushak), Mr. Green (John Shartzer), Professor Plum (Jonathan Spivey), and Miss Scarlet (Christina Anthony). Each character brings their own version of slapstick comedy that helps to round out the ensemble. Including the Cook (Mariah Burks) and Mr. Boddy (Alex Syiek), who bring special attention to their characters throughout the whole production.
The set design (Lee Savage) flowed like a perfectly choreographed dance. The set design mirrored the iconic mansion and served as a character in its own right. From the chandeliers and 1950s furniture to the dimly lit corridors it really set the tone for an evening of mystery and intrigue. There is no intermission, so the movable walls and rotating set pieces allow the production to transition smoothly between the various rooms, whether it’s the Library, the Study, or the infamous Ballroom.
As we transition through different rooms of the mansion to solve the mystery of who killed who, we are met with more cleverness and wit by all the current occupants. However, the heart of the comedy lies with Wadsworth as he seems to be the host and the tourist for all of the…possible suspects. There’s a perfect balance of subtle professionalism and suave, sprinkled with fast paced monologues and a brilliantly climatic scene where he recounts the entire evening.
Every character adds their own flavor of absurdity. The interactions throughout the play are a series of miscommunications, missteps, and high skepticism amongst the cast which creates a flow throughout the show.
The humor and tone of the show had a perfect blend of the world in the 1950s and the world as it is now. With mention of politics and corruption in Washington, DC. The audience seemed to be more than welcoming to laugh at misery rather than cry about it. The jokes came so quickly that it left little time for anyone to dwell any deeper than what was intended.
Overall, this production of Clue was perfectly executed and provided a MUCH NEEDED laugh. It was an enjoyable experience for the old and new fans alike. Clue provides high-energy fun and unforgettable moments. This is a production that doesn’t take itself serious and I promise every audience member will leave with a higher spirit than when they entered.
