The stage is set for a thrilling new chapter in local performing arts with the much-anticipated inaugural production from HIS Stage Theatre: the comedic whodunit, “Clue.” This adaptation promises audiences an evening filled with laughter, suspense, and unexpected turns, bringing a beloved classic to life with a fresh perspective.
It is hardly surprising that “Clue,” a board game that has captivated generations for over 75 years and a film that garnered a dedicated cult following across four decades, has found its natural home on the theatrical stage. Since its stage premiere in 2017, the play has consistently delighted audiences, keeping them both guessing and laughing at every twist of the plot.
This high-energy theatrical experience marks a significant milestone as the debut offering from HIS Stage Theatre. Patrons will have multiple opportunities to immerse themselves in the mystery, with three performances scheduled across Friday and Saturday evenings at the historic State Theatre, promising an accessible and engaging cultural event for the community.
Behind the vision of HIS Stage Theatre is owner and director Taylor Evans, a Greenville native and East Carolina University graduate with a strong background in theater, including roles in productions such as “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.” Evans articulates a clear mission for her new venture: to cultivate a nurturing environment for Christian artists to engage in theater, ensuring productions are family-friendly and welcoming for both audiences and participants.
The current production of “Clue” benefits from Evans’ extensive experience, featuring a talented ensemble that includes several of her current and former students from Christ Covenant School, where she also serves as a theater teacher. This collaborative effort highlights a commitment to fostering local talent and creating a vibrant community within the arts.
Adapted for the stage by playwright Sandy Rustin from Jonathan Lynn’s 1985 film, “Clue” masterfully draws inspiration from the classic Hasbro board game, challenging players to deduce the culprit, weapon, and location of a murder. Set in the 1950s, the play opens as eccentric guests converge on Boddy Manor for a dinner party, only to discover their host, who has been blackmailing them all, has been fatally dispatched. However, unlike its more serious counterparts, the stage version leans heavily into comedic elements, prioritizing silliness over scares.
The production features a vibrant cast embodying the iconic characters: the sarcastic and secretive Miss Scarlett (Claire Sutton), the pompous Colonel Mustard (Noah Wallace), the affluent Mrs. Peacock (Kailey Nava), the morbid Mrs. White (Annabel Ipock), the arrogant Professor Plum (William Randall), and the anxious rule-follower Mr. Green (Ashton Zeigler). Each actor brings a unique comedic flair to their role, enriching the overall dynamic of the performance and making the whodunit all the more entertaining.
Notably, Noah Wallace, portraying Mr. Green, shared insights into his character’s nuanced portrayal, noting, “In the play, he’s a bit of a bumbling idiot who tries to look smart, but not really. It’s fun. It’s nice to expand my acting range.” Claire Sutton, who grew up loving the “Clue” movie’s multiple endings, assures audiences that this staged version offers a singular, satisfying conclusion and that all HIS Stage Theatre productions are crafted to be suitable for general audiences.
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