Pentacle Theatre presents Clue: On Stage

Catch the whodunit comedy before time — or tickets — run out

Tickets are selling fast, but you still (might) have a chance to see Pentacle Theatre’s production of the whodunit comedy Clue: On Stage, where long-time Salem resident Brandon Gitchel has made his directorial debut.

Clue: On Stage marks his tenth Pentacle production and after being assistant to director Cherie Ulmer for The Fantasticks, he decided it was time to step into that lead role, himself.

“When I read the script, I was very happy that it was faithful to the movie and kept a lot of the comedy and heart that made the movie so special…I couldn't pass up such a fun experience and knew that I had to try to direct this show.”

But as with taking on any new role, it can be daunting.

“...for months I worried about how many people would audition and what kind of talent there would be. Logically, I knew that it would be decent as I had several people tell me that they were going to audition. But inside my silly mind, I was worried like crazy.”

Brandon’s worry was for naught. 52 people auditioned for Clue: On Stage.

“That kind of a turnout for a straight play (not a musical) is unheard of at Pentacle. Even more exciting was that among those who came was an immense talent. I was impressed by almost every single reading that day. It made the eventual casting choices incredibly difficult. But it was a very rewarding process. With this being my first show directing at Pentacle, I have constantly been amazed by the support from the Pentacle community.”

And with the cast set, rehearsals began.

“Rehearsals for this show have been among the most fun I have ever had. We have an absolutely incredible cast and crew that brings so much experience to the stage. However, they are also not afraid to play. Throughout the rehearsal process, so many hilarious

moments have come not from my direction, but from the performers trying things. The entire cast has great comedic timing, and are all willing to try new things and see how they turn out. It has been beautiful to see everyone's creativity and love for this show.”

But that is not to say the show hasn’t had its difficulties, the most complex of which was figuring out how to present a house of rooms in Pentacle’s limited space. Nine locations are shown on stage through a mix of specialty-made projections and moving furniture.

Seen the well-known 1985 film? Don’t let that stop you from experiencing the stage show.

“This adaptation is very faithful to the movie, but it also has differences. We see some different scenes and even endings in this version. Plus, our cast has made these characters their own. We are not seeing anyone trying to impersonate Tim Curry or Christopher Lloyd or Madeline Kahn. Instead, these characters are completely their own and have been fine-tuned throughout our rehearsal process. Plus, this show is a farcical murder mystery based on a cult-classic movie and a best-selling board game. It is going to be a great time even if you have seen the movie!”

Find out who did it, where it happened and with what…

— Carlee Wright

Clue On Stage

7:30 p.m. Sept 5-7, 12-14 and 2 p.m. Sept 1, 7-8 at Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave NW tickets.pentacletheatre.org