Kyabram Theatre Group’s production of Clue is being directed by Jodee Shead in her senior production directorial debut.
The stage show is based on the board game Cluedo and is a cynical satire murder mystery, with seven potential murderers.
“This is the first adult production that I have directed. I am very proud of the Kyabram Theatre Group (KTG) and have thoroughly enjoyed the experience,” Ms Shead said.
She said there was nothing more special than watching and producing something from the start, then witnessing first-hand your vision come to life.
“Backstage manager Jessie Stevens had been my rock since we started rehearsing on stage,” she said.
“For such a young person, he reads situations very well.”
Bendigo Synchronicity Theatre Production generously offered the sets and costumes from its production of Clue, leaving the Kyabram group needing only to find costumes for a few characters.
That meant there was only the doors to construct, which Kim Morrison painted and readied the stage show.
Rehearsals started three months ago and the director said the progress made by the cast had been amazing.
“I am so proud of them all,” Ms Shead said, explaining there were some hiccups when, after assembling a full cast, some were unable to fulfil the commitment.
“Ruby Phillips joined us a month ago as the youngest member of the cast. She has taken to it like a duck to water.
“Unfortunately, Cheryl Warne injured herself last week and had to make the difficult decision (to) give up her parts.
“We kept her involved and she has taken on the role of prompt.”
This left the motorist and Mr Boddy as the remaining vacant roles.
“As it was only a week before show time, and there wasn’t enough time to teach anybody the parts, the decision was made for myself to take it on,” Ms Shead said.
“I already knew the directions and most of the lines. I hope the community can support the KTG by buying tickets.”
Opening night is Friday at 7.30pm, followed by two shows on Saturday at 1.30pm and 7.30pm at the Kyabram P-12 College Hall.
Tickets are available online at trybooking.com/events/landing/1047034 or at Ky Fab Flowers.
“I am positive they will enjoy the show. Maybe they will even guess who the murderer is,” Ms Shead said.
“My final tip is to dress warmly.”