![Hosting the SCLA Casptone Mentor Dinner outside allowed for more attendees on September 27, 2021 at Silver Creek. This event would’ve usually been held inside. According to Lauren Kohn, a SCLA 12 teacher, “If we have a higher number of people, as long as we can host the event outside, then that seems to be keeping every[one] safe”.](https://schsnews.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/sxMAIGbSYGodZkqmrvTi5YWcJ1ssWA08ApkeMLpp-900x675.jpeg)
“CLUE: On Stage” is based on the 1985 Paramount Film, which, of course, was inspired by the classic board game from Hasbro. Featuring iconic characters such as Mrs. Peacock, Colonel Mustard, and Miss. Scarlet; as well as a thrilling murder-mystery plot, it is no surprise the stage adaptation of this beloved game was a success.
The original “CLUE: On Stage” premiered live in Pennsylvania, 2017, it also made its debut in Ohio and New Jersey. It was later followed by a national tour in 2024. The show is currently making its way around the country, visiting a different state just about every week. “CLUE: On Stage” has also made its way to Silver Creek High School, entertaining audiences for two nights in a row.
The play follows the well-known board game characters during an eventful— and mysterious— dinner party. Slowly, more and more information is revealed about the dinner party’s guests, creating a thicker and more intriguing storyline as the play goes on. Full of plot twists, murder, and oodles of physical comedy, naturally the audience was on the edge of their seats, excited to see what happens next.
Silver Creek’s rendition of “CLUE: On Stage” was very well cast, and demonstrated the importance of a tight-knit and precise ensemble. The characters display a diverse range of tropes and stereotypes adding to the comedic elements of the plot.
The leading cast included the pompous but foolish Colonel Mustard (Desmond Baker), the arrogant and intelligent Professor Plum (Gavin Coffin), the glamourous and sarcastic Miss Scarlet (Grace Ann Dunn), the anxious and rule following Mr. Green (Dominic Beer), the batty and churchgoing Mrs. Peacock (Allisan Heydt), and the morbid and cynical Mrs. White (Liv Baker). These characters are led by Wadsworth, the formal yet comical butler (RC Bader). Along with this, the quirky ensemble characters rounded out the cast, adding additional comedy to the overall production.
The cast remained strong through a few unexpected hiccups during the run, a true sign of a cohesive and mighty cast. Some imaginary cups lost their imaginary liquid and some lines were hard to hear amidst the laughter, but the actors made smart choices and stayed in character through it all. They portrayed bold physical acting decisions as well as distinct character voices, and commitment to the tactics and stakes at play.
In addition to the strong cast, the play’s script, written by Jonathan Lynn and adapted by Sandy Rustin, is inherently smart and was a great choice for the Silver Creek actors. The script for “CLUE: On Stage” requires a variety of skills and techniques to make the show what it is, and the cast did not disappoint.
From the back-to-back lines, comedic timing, and various comedy styles and comedic elements, the cast beautifully handled this clever and non-stop text. There was not a single dull moment in this play, and there was hardly any time to applaud in between scenes, as there were very few blackouts and scene changes. Despite a long intermission, the show kept moving, keeping audiences engaged and curious.
This show also had a detailed set and innovative lighting design that added to the effects of the plot. Having suspenseful background music, flashes of red light during the murders, and the multidimensional set created an immersive experience for the audience. Similarly, the costume design and commitment to each character’s iconic color was an added step that helped create a cohesive production.
At its core, “CLUE: On Stage” is fun and witty. It is suspenseful and exciting. And of course, it is a classic ‘who done it’ mystery with many twists and turns. From the casting and comical script, to the lighting and set design, and the hard-working and organized crew, this was a well done show that left audience members laughing out loud and smiling ear to ear.
If you missed this live performance, don’t worry. Stay tuned for “Mean Girls” coming to the Silver Creek stage this spring. To get involved in future productions contact Tracy Knick, the program’s director at [email protected]. You can also get information from the theater program’s Instagram page, @silvercreek.drama.
