Photo credit Greg Z. Newcomb for Westminster Community Theater

Written by Patrick Chavis 

Murder mystery reviews are a trap. Good or bad, the chances of dropping a spoiler are exponentially increased in these plays because they are all about the details (clues). By boasting a talented cast with an almost non-existent set, WCT pushes a rather “generic” murder mystery into something more thrilling and entertaining. If you’re old enough to be a Matlock fan, this play is right in your wheelhouse.

Story:

The name in the title says Rehearsal for Murder, but that’s not exactly accurate, or is it? It’s a play about Monica Wells and her death. Monica Welles, a theater actress played exceptionally well by Lisa March, is found dead with a suicide note after receiving mixed reviews for her latest show. All signs point to suicide, but Alex Dennison, Monica’s lover and powerful theater playwright, feels he knows better. Using his influence, Alex devises a play rehearsal to weed out the culprit, but like any murder mystery, there’s more to it than meets the eye.

Acting:

The acting is so well done, especially by Stephen Alan Carver. You almost bypass the obvious and way too predictable resolution of the story. Flat out, besides the two main characters, the audience is given little reason to care about other characters in the script. 

Overall:

Overall, the lack of action in this script is remedied with a likable cast, making the scenes enjoyable and worth the price of admission. But for theatergoers looking for a suspenseful night of shock and awe, it might not be enough.  

7/10

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