An upcoming production by the 100 Mile Performing Arts Society will feature a couple of faces new to the local community theatre scene, and plenty of plot twists sure to keep audiences guessing until the end.
Director Gord Smith describes Art of Murder, written by playwright Joe DiPietro, as a “light-hearted” murder-mystery.
“It has some comedy in it,” Smith explains. “From situational, to ironic, to slapstick almost. But it’s a serious theme. [DiPietro] does use the play to make a statement about the morals, or lack of them, in the entertainment and art world.
“There are also three plots going on. You’re not totally aware of [them] until the end.”
The cast includes Kaitlyn Dewhirst, Rachel Guindon, Shawn Nelson and Eric Storteboom.
Dewhirst and Guidon are relative newcomers to 100 Mile House, and they’re both excited about their first upcoming performance.
Dewhirst, who studied theatre in school, moved to the area from Kelowna. She’s playing Annie Brooks, an artist and the wife of famed painter Jack Brooks (played by Storteboom), who’s planning the murder of art dealer Vincent Cummings (played by Nelson).
“It’s great,” Dewhirst says of the experience. “It’s a lot of fun.”
Guidon moved to 100 Mile House from Quebec. She’s playing Kate, the Brooks’ maid. Because of her French accent, Guidon says she was a bit worried about the audition.
“But I think it turned out to be good for me. I’m excited and nervous. I never did a big play in front of a lot of people.”
The production will also see paintings by local artist Gail Thorne on set. Some of Thorne’s paintings will also be for sale in the entryway.
For Smith, a longtime Performing Arts Society member, Art of Murder is his directorial debut.
“I’m looking forward to a good show,” he says. “They’re all talented people.”
Smith also thanked and acknowledged all the hard work by producers and members behind the scenes, the people taking care of things like costumes, lighting, sound and set design.
“Give those people a lot of credit. Without them, there’s no show.”
Art of Murder runs Feb. 5 at 7 p.m., Feb. 6 at 7 p.m., and Feb. 7 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Tickets are $15 and available at Didi’s Boutique and Donex Pharmacy on Birch Avenue in 100 Mile House.
