Want a Clue? It’s On Stage this May.
Venice’s theater program will be putting on a production of Clue: On Stage May 2 to May 4.
Based on the original board game and film adaptation, Clue: On Stage is a witty murder mystery about six people who have been summoned to a mansion to solve a crime.
Throughout the semester, English teacher Bianca Andrews has been directing actors and the stage crew for the puzzling production.
“Students have used all of the construction techniques that we’ve learned throughout the year to really put it together and create something new,” Andrews said.
The elaborate play will contain six different sets, carefully crafted by the stage design class based on the vibrant colors and characters of the original board game.
“This is a huge set to construct because like in the board game, there’s different rooms and we’re creating six different locations,” she said.
The production will showcase a double casted ensemble with six main characters: Miss Scarlet, Colonel Mustard, Mrs. White, Mr. Green, Ms. Peacock, and Professor Plum.
“Everyone’s kind of a wacky character and we’ve all discovered different voices and characteristics for each one that have made them,” Andrews said.
Junior Elize Waters is playing Miss Scarlet, a lady who runs a non governmental agency and handles classified affairs.
“My favorite thing is being on a stage and being able to tell a story through your words and movements,” she said.
Waters and the crew have been practicing blocking and preparing the layout for the production.
“The movement we do on stage is very intricate, well planned—everything is well thought out,” she said. “It really shows just how good of a production team we have and how much effort everybody’s willing to produce art.”
Junior Giselle Hathcock joined the stage design class to create lively sets and has been constructing the main hall and a grand entrance which will include double doors and giant platform steps.
“I’m an artist, and I wanted to bring more art to life,” she said. “It’s kind of easy when you have these higher quality materials that you can make on larger scales.”
Andrews and the stage design class are applying their theatrical and visual skills to make an engaging experience.
“Students have used all of the construction techniques that we’ve learned throughout the year to really put it together and create something new,” she said.
Waters is passionate about playing Miss Scarlet in the upcoming production and is excited to connect with the audience.
“Having people laugh with you, cry with you, be happy, be angry at you—it’s all like a presentation of a total package to this wonderful thing called theater,” she said.
