By Victoria R. Watson, Wildcats Media
Theatre Louisiana Christian (TLC) opened its first show of the 2023-24 season on Sept. 7 with “The Mousetrap” by Agatha Christie.
“The Mousetrap is an exciting whodunit dramatic mystery filled with comedic twists and turns that will keep everyone on the edge of their seat,” said LCU senior theatre major Colleen Andrews, who is stage managing the show.
The show is the longest continuously running murder mystery play in American history–beginning Oct. 6, 1952, and running until March 16, 2020. It just celebrated its 70th year of touring.
“With such a diverse mix of majors from across the campus, it’s even more impressive how the students have been handling this material,” said Enrico Cannella, assistant professor of music and director of the play. “It’s been such a joy to work with such a creative group at LCU. This family-friendly mystery captures the ‘Murder She Wrote’ charm, and if you care to come a second time, it may be nice to find the hidden clues.”
The play opens with Mollie and Giles Ralston, played by freshman Olivia Huffman and sophomore Cayden Walls, preparing their guest home in the London country for their expected guests. However, news spreads of a murder as a blizzard breaks out and floods the roads with impassable snow.
As a police sergeant unexpectedly arrives, the guests quickly discover the killer is among them. One by one, the five guests reveal their suspicious pasts.
This show mixes comedy and mystery in a beautifully entertaining way. TLC has done a fantastic job translating the secrets of these characters to a nearby stage where everyone, young or old, can enjoy the suspense.
Lexi Hubbard, a senior journalism major at LCU, said she loves to see what TLC has in store.
“I always love seeing TLC’s productions each semester,” Hubbard said. “They always do a great job transforming the black box into the various places each play is set in.”
Between the beautifully designed set, lighting, and music, each viewer is transported to this London guest home and can find pleasure in trying to solve the mystery themselves.
Kaelyn Richard, a freshman at LCU double majoring in psychology and theatre, said everyone should see TLC’s performance.
“I honestly want to see it again,” Richard said. “They did an amazing job as always. If you haven’t seen it yet, you definitely should.”
Don’t miss your chance to enjoy the show and discover who the killer is. The last showings are on Sept. 14-15 at 7 p.m., and Sept. 16 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 for LCU students, faculty, and staff; $12 for senior citizens and non-LCU students; and $15 for general admission. Groups of 10 or more can attend for $10.
Visit Https://www.purplepass.com/#u53593/Theatre_Louisiana_Christian.html to get your tickets.