How was Charles Dickens’ unfinished novel, “The Mystery of Edwin Drood,” supposed to end?
You’ll be able to help make that decision in this interactive musical rendition of the incredible storyteller’s last novel. When Edwin Drood disappears, never to return, there is a wide assortment of suspects, with possibilities ranging from Drood’s sneaky uncle to his sweet fiancée.
The Turning Tydes Theatre Company is partnering with OnStage to produce this Tony-winning musical. The Turning Tydes group is known for its comical performances of Broadway shows with a twist at San Diego’s International Fringe Festival. The troupe demonstrates its prowess in this large-cast musical production.
The highpoint of the production is the energetic, enthusiastic cast members who seem to be enjoying themselves immensely. They interact with the audience before and during the musical.
The show has qualities of a melodrama, with the audience booing and hissing at the creepy villain John Jasper, well played by Tyler C. Jiles. An audience favorite was Princess Puffer, the owner of an opium den, played by Kat Fitzpatrick. She was mischievous, a bit evil, and always ready for a good time.
The voices of the cast were outstanding, a strong point of the show. Summer Blinco, (Rosa Bud), Edwin Drood (Jordan Hall Campbell), Georgia Ladd (Chairperson) and Jasper were of particular note. The musical is filled with lively music and dance. A scene stealer is the entire company’s production number of the song “Don’t Quit While You’re Ahead.”
Director Alex Bezdeka is to be commended for her ability to unite the large cast for its unusual journey.
The costumes designed by Summer Blinco and Andrea Pulliam are a delight and bring the audience into the world of Dickens’ Victorian England. Candace Carbajal’s choreography and Jordan Hall Campbell’s musical direction were valuable elements of the musical, as were producer Teri Brown’s contributions.
The whole cast appears to have a lot of fun, so why shouldn’t the audience also?
The popular musical runs through Dec.8 (no performances on Nov. 22 or Dec. 1). Pay-in-advance online tickets are $25 with group rates available. Curtain times are Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.
Reservations: 619-422-RSVP (7787) or www.onstageplayhouse.org.
OnStage Playhouse is located on historic Third Avenue in downtown Chula Vista, within walking distance of several breweries and restaurants for pre- and post-show dining. Parking is available on nearby streets or in city lots.
Additional photos by Darren Scott (courtesy OnStage Playhouse):
