THE PLAY: A musical mystery in the Agatha Christie vein: a group of strangers comes for a weekend at a country manor, only to die one by one.

 

THE PRODUCTION: The characters embody various traditional types and the actors realize them in styles ranging from amusing (Nancy Kent Collie’s Cockney maid) to over-the-top broad (Joy Williams effusive matron). This mashup doesn’t always work. The script’s clunky comedy sometimes succeeds. At other times, the cast is trying too hard to be funny. Jacqueline Jones commands the proceedings with assurance. Tom Width’s signature zippy pacing and clever set surprises help keep it enjoyable, but the overall style is uneven. The songs feature nondescript melodies with obvious lyrics and the cast does OK, but the over-amplified voices expose every flaw. While not especially attractive, Width’s set works well and Joe Doran adds appropriate lighting accents. The dresses designed by Maura Lynch Cravey’s aren’t especially flattering. Running time: 2:00

 

THE POINT: While there are amusing moments and some enjoyable performances, this production presents an unevenly stylized approach to comedy.

 

(2.5 / 5)

 

At Swift Creek Mill Theatre thru 5/6