LHS Drama is performing Murder By Membership Only, at 7 p.m. on Sept. 11, 12 and 14 in the P1FCU Performing Arts Center at the high school.
This show is a continuation of the recently-formed Senior Show tradition. This tradition began last year, with the performance of Lucky Stiff, which was produced and acted by seniors only. The show allows seniors to showcase everything they’ve learned and the skills they have acquired since joining LHS Drama. This play was especially significant because it was an all-girls cast and an excellent representation of the drama team’s capabilities.
Murder By Membership Only is a mystery-comedy where a group of mystery writers try to solve the murder of the hated writer, Octavia Sturges (played by Lauren Gibbs). After the murder takes place, the women decide to solve the murder themselves before they involve the police. The play is full of secrets, plot twists and witty humor. The cast includes Hester Tandy (played by Anikka Wilponen), Lydia Beaton (played by Josephine Carbaugh), Mrs. Plimpton (played by Nalani Nattell), Madame Lecoz (played by Hannah Wilson), Clarrise Furgusson (played by Jaylla Ackerland), Mrs. Balser (played by Kenzie Smith), Eva Hawkins (played by Jillian Herr), and May Cobbs (played by Julia Grossman).
The play itself is incredible. The costumes, makeup and set are all very concise and detailed with a vintage look. The humor is very amusing and sophisticated. On opening night, the crowd frequently murmured with chuckles and often burst out with whole-hearted laughter.
The whole cast plays off each other well, but a couple of actresses stand out. Herr was a crowd favorite on opening night. She was expressive with dramatic physical comedy and perfect comedic timing. Gibbs also stood out for her incredible accent and eccentric acting. Gibbs seemed fully immersed in her character.
Another feature that stood out on opening night was the involvement of the audience. The playbill told audience members that four seals were hidden throughout the set and asked them to try and find them. Then, at intermission, the crowd was asked who they believed the murderer to be and, the end of the play, discovered if they were right.
Overall, for the acting, the humor, and the interactive elements, LHS drama deserves a 5/5 for their incredible performance.
