It’s a mystery about a mystery — with a hearty dose of backstage drama.
Unrehearsed Murder, now playing at Ladysmith Little Theatre, is a play about a play, a community theatre mystery set in the world of community theatre. Written by local author Elaine MacDonald and directed by Lyndon B, this cozy whodunit playfully blurs the line between art and life.
Set at a fictional volunteer-run theatre, the story follows a troupe of actors as they scramble to mount a show that could save their company from collapse. Rehearsal tensions, personal secrets and backstage chaos soon give way to murder. Everyone’s a suspect until the final moments when the truth is revealed.
Despite being centred on a death, the show never loses its sense of humour. MacDonald’s script leans into the familiar rhythms of community theatre life, offering affectionate jabs at backstage egos, creative disagreements and the absurdities that come with any production, amateur or professional. Audiences familiar with local theatre will recognize the world of Unrehearsed Murder in this portrait of group creativity.
The cast had clearly bonded, as happens when people are thrown together to mount a show in just a few weeks. Their rapport felt familiar and comfortable, which had the audience feeling the same.
As Officer Javill, actor Steve Dyer steals scenes with his dry delivery and comedic timing. His gruff, no-nonsense cop, dropped into a world of wacky theatre people, earned some of the show’s biggest laughs.
Jennavive Grace, in her first performance with Ladysmith Little Theatre, also stood out as Liz, the emotional heart of the play. Grace kept the play moving, driving the pace with her character’s anxious energy as things go from bad to worse and someone turns up dead. These performances anchor the show’s emotional stakes and comedic rhythm, helping maintain momentum through the twists and turns of the story.
The ensemble cast also includes Rebecca Baglo, Chadd Cawson, Dave Ehrismann, Julia Gittins, Doug Johnson, Christine Kemppi, Carol Powler and Kim Watts, each contributing to the play’s tone of chaotic camaraderie.
The technical elements of the show, including a functional and flexible set design by Lyndon B and Jim Huzarski, costumes by Jeanene Williams, and lighting by Charles Harman, are executed with creativity and care, adding to the show’s charm.
Community theatre, much like the play itself, runs on passion, collaboration and the occasional creative clash. It’s both a labour of love and a testament to what happens when people come together to tell a story. MacDonald’s script taps into that spirit, where the heart of the play truly lies.
This production succeeds in delivering exactly what it promises: a cozy mystery filled with laughter, heart and community spirit. The audience was attentive and clearly invested in the story, responding with enthusiasm at key moments.
Elaine MacDonald’s first foray into playwriting is full of promise. Her script hints at an exciting new chapter for a writer who has already spent decades telling stories in many forms.
Unrehearsed Murder runs through Oct. 5 at Ladysmith Little Theatre. For tickets and showtimes, visit ladysmiththeatre.com or call the box office.
