Sometimes we seek entertainment to open our minds, to make us think and to learn. There are times, though, when we just want to have some fun!
Drury Lane Theatre Oakbrook is presenting a very funny spoof called Something's Afoot, a new murder mystery musical by James McDonald, David Vos and Robert Gerlach with additional music by Ed Linderman. It combines all of the murder mystery stories from movies, the stage and books, and creates a farce that one might expect from Agatha Christie or Erle Stanley Garner.
Ten people have been summoned for a meeting with Lord Dudley Rancour on his isolated estate. As they arrive, a raging storm washes out the bridge and causes the phone lines to die; and then, so do the characters, one by one. David Perkovich has put together some of Chicago's finest actors to create a fast-paced flawless production. Although the music isn't memorable, the cast is solid led by the hysterically funny Liz Pazik as Miss Tweed.
In addition, there is the always reliable Iris Lieberman; Don Forston, who has a death scene that will leave you in stitches; the lovely McKinley Carter, always a delight to watch; Susie McMonagle, who does splendidly; as well as Jim Rank, Michael Accardo, Jon Cunningham, Roger Anderson and Mark Mahallak.
Even the set becomes a character in this production (Bill Bartfelt has done a masterful job) along with some wonderful costumes by Caryn Klein and lighting effects by Maya Bredenkamp. Choreographer, Stacey Flaster pulled out all the stops, using every form of a musical number since the 1930's.
Canes appear from the orchestra pit as do sailor straw hats for the chorus line numbers; line dances, kick dances, a little soft shoe—wait a minute, I don't think I saw "tap," but everything else is there and all very well done indeed—well worth the ride to Oakbrook.
Something's Afoot
Drury Lane Theatre Oakbrook
100 Drury Lane
Tickets: $25-$50
Reservations: 630-530-0111, or online at
www.drurylaneoakbrook.com
Alan Bresloff writes theater reviews in the Chicago area.
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