 It’s time to get to know the cast members of Murder with Mummies. Who’s sweet? Innocent? Crazy? Bossy? What kind of person commits murder?
To start, there’s Amelia Schwartzberg (Cheryl Crabb), Gerald’s long-suffering wife. Having fallen for Gerald’s charms years ago, she’s since had to live a life without many charming moments. Instead of dealing with that reality, she’s chosen to live within fiction and history. Does she come around to the present long enough to kill? Could Wes Baker (Conrad Bianco), the archaeologist, really be as naïve and innocent as he appears? Or, could the notoriety of making the biggest archaeological find of the century alter his ego? Changing him into someone totally unlike himself. Let me introduce you to the snooty Ms. Delilah Holmes (Cassie Culpepper), the antiques appraiser. Ms. Holmes has made sure she got the appraiser’s position. Why was it so important to her? Could she have past history with Gerald Schwartzberg that would entice her to murder him? Now Zahi Abdullah (Mark LaMarche) is not only here for the exhibit as the protector of the Egyptian artifacts, but he’s using this time in the U.S. to find himself a second wife too. Ladies, in case you’re looking for Mr. Right, Dr. Abdullah works with the Egyptian Supreme Council of Antiquities, enjoys walking along the banks of the Nile, being fed grapes in a tent, and traveling to a faraway oasis. Could this wife hunting really be a ruse to distract you from his plot to kill Gerald? Now, the tabloid magazine reporter, B.J. Cameron (Valerie Boyce), definitely has past history with Mr. Schwartzberg, or should I say Professor Schwartzberg? Can she overcome the need for revenge with pen and paper instead of seeking murderous vengeance? Finally, there’s the stressed event planner, Karen Smithson, (Bridget Yeager) who needs this event to be a success for her business. When Gerald tries taking over, does that cause Ms. Smithson to snap? Did this shy, unassuming business owner reach her breaking point and commit murder? All of these people are fed up with Gerald’s domineering, high-handed ways. Any guess yet who finally turned on him? Maybe you’ll just have to see the show and find out for yourself.
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Let’s Get Ready to…Solve Another Crime. This week opens Murder with Mummies, and it’s gonna be a killer show.
This is Jamie Williams first time directing with R-ACT, and she’s loved every minute of it. The entire cast and crew put in some long hours and is just about ready for opening night on Friday, October 3rd. Let’s find out what’s been happening: One of Jamie’s favorite parts of rehearsal was practicing the interrogation scene. The cast has been anticipating audience members’ questions, but we’re depending on you to get creative. The cast has certainly come up with some unique questions and answers to test themselves already, though. “The improv is admirable and can be quite comical.” Do you have what it takes to question this cast? Now it wouldn’t be a good show without some plot twists and unique character personalities, but don’t be fooled. We’ll get to bottom of this crime together. Jamie warns, though, to be prepared for the murderer’s arrest. ‘Everyone has good reason to kill Gerald Schwartzberg, but you’ll need to pay attention. It’s truly about the twist.’ Finally, creating the scenes made for some fun times too. “Collecting and making the Egyptian props was the most fun. There were so many opportunities to be creative.” She also wants to give a shout out to Tyree Patrick for creating the hieroglyphics and artwork. Well, that’s the first sneak peak of R-ACT’s latest production. Check back for some more fun facts from the cast and crew in the ‘Behind the Scenes’ blog tomorrow. In the meantime, get your ticket online through our website and enjoy the picture from the show by Tarquinio Photo.  The leaves are beginning to fall, all things pumpkin are starting tantalize our five senses and the R-ACT gang is hard at play rehearsing for our upcoming Spin murder mystery production of Murder with Mummies!
Aaron Burr University is opening an exhibit of artifacts from the newly-discovered tomb of the ancient Egyptian prince, Imhotep. University president, pompous, egotistical Gerald Schwartzberg (Eric Armstrong), attempts to take control of the show and the artifacts, but is stopped by Imhotep’s ceremonial dagger. Who could have done such a thing: Wes Baker (Conrad Bianco), the discoverer of the tomb? Amelia Schwartzberg (Cheryl Crabb), Gerald’s long-suffering wife? Zahi Abdullah (Mark LeMarche), protector of the artifacts? The antiques appraiser Delilah Holmes (Cassie Culpepper)? The tabloid magazine reporter B.J. Cameron (Valerie Boyce)? Or the harried event planner Karen Smithson (Bridget Yeager)? Will security guard Brenda Brock (Janet Hutchinson) solve the murder and remove the mummy’s curse? CAN YOU solve this bloody crime? Directed by Jamie Williams and Valerie Boyce WIN FREE SHOW TICKETS! Let us know you have bought your tickets before September 20th! Here is how: 1. Send us a post on our Facebook Page or a tweet on our Twitter with the hashtag #RACTMummies letting us know you have bought your tickets! (offer available for online purchases only) 2. Share our website link: www.ractproductions.com 3. That's it! You will be entered to win two free tickets to our next production of Writer's Block on November 14th, 15th and 16th on the date of your choice and a $25 Bocktown Beer and Grill Gift Card! Good luck! BUY MURDER WITH MUMMIES TICKETS NOW! For in hand purchase, please visit the Hostess Gift Shoppe 600 3rd St. Beaver, Pa. Doors are at 6:00 Curtains are at 7:00 There will be delicious sweet and savory concessions available from S&D Cafe, Pittsburgh such as unique sandwiches, salads and pastries. (Cash Only). This performance is BYOB for our 21 and over patrons. Please bring your own glasses and openers. Bringing libations that don't require much of a fuss are recommended, as playing Tom Cruise in "Cocktail" during the performance might be annoying to other patrons. Please drink responsibly. Join us at the Avenue Theater and commence your fall with a spooky curse..eh or a bang! |
