SYNOPSIS:

An eccentric theatre financier has gathered a team at her mansion in New York. Everyone believes that they will have a backer’s audition to get an investment for their newest musical. However, the shadow of the team’s last show hangs over the group—due mysterious murders committed by the “Stage Door Slasher.” An undercover police officer is hoping to flush out the killer from this group of suspects. Throw in blizzard conditions and secret passageways to create an Agatha-Christie-meets-Clue formula of whodunnit parody. The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940 is full of delightful slapstick for audience of all ages.

ROLES AVAILABLE:

• Helsa Wenzel (female-identified, any ethnicity, 20s-40s) – The German maid of the house, Helsa is mysterious and efficient. She has a strong accent and is seemingly everywhere at once.

• Elsa Von Grossenknueten (female-identified, any ethnicity, 40s-60s) -The eccentric and wealthy widow who owns the mansion. Elsa fancies herself a patron of the arts and amateur sleuth. Enthusiastic, scatterbrained, and theatrical.

• Patrick O’Reilly (male-identified, any ethnicity, 30s-50s) – A comic Irish tenor. O’Reilly’s Irish accent and identity are suspect. He brings big energy and broad comedy.

• Ken De La Maize (male-identified, any ethnicity, 30s-50s) – A self-absorbed Broadway director known for melodrama and pretentiousness. Ken is slick, theatrical, and full of himself, always trying to steal the spotlight.

• Nikki Crandall (female-identified, any ethnicity, 20s-30s) – A pretty, perky chorus girl with surprising depth. At first, she seems like the stereotypical ingénue, but she proves resourceful as chaos unfolds

• Eddie McCuen (male-identified, any ethnicity, 20s-30s) – A struggling comedian desperate for a break. Nervous, bumbling, and endearingly clueless

• Marjorie Baverstock (female-identified, any ethnicity, 40s-60s) – A famous Broadway producer known for her flair and eccentricity. She’s loud, enthusiastic, and convinced of her own brilliance, often mixing up people and facts.

• Roger Hopewell (male-identified, any ethnicity, 20s-40s) – The witty, sarcastic composer of the previous show. He’s jaded, clever, and constantly trading barbs with his writing partner, Bernice.

• Bernice Roth (female-identified, any ethnicity, 20s-40s) – The lyricist half of the composer/lyricist team, and Roger’s professional partner. Bernice is neurotic, easily spooked, and often a little tipsy.

We are committed to providing opportunities for diverse voices and performers. Experienced artists and newcomers of all backgrounds and ethnicities are encouraged to audition.