Theatre company off to the races

SPRING racing is coming to Creswick, with a sinister twist.

Creswick Theatre Company is leading an interactive mingle mystery production, Murder at the Derby, on Saturday 14 October from 7.30pm.

Company treasurer Jenni Sewell said community members are invited to dress up for the Talbott Downs races and either attempt to solve the crime, or volunteer to be one of the 13 suspects.

“The Creswick Theatre at the old courthouse will turn into a racetrack, and everybody there will be part of it,” she said.

“A death at the racetrack will be reported, and then everyone at the theatre can investigate it.

“All guests can chat to the suspects, who will be jockeys, horse owners, punters, their wives, and fashions on the field competitors, ask questions about where they were, and at the end they vote.”

Creswick Theatre Company has produced an interactive whodunnit before, called Murder at the Cherry Tree Saloon, and is putting on Murder at the Derby not only to raise funds for their operations, but simply because these types of events are fun.

“They’re a bit different to a traditional production, they’re a one-nighter, and everyone that comes to the theatre participates,” Ms Sewell said.

“The last time we did this, we had a couple of people participate that have been in other plays with us.

“It’s a lovely introduction to the theatre, the company, and people can have a bit of a play.”

Anyone can apply to be a suspect. They don’t have to audition, they just have to be willing to perform a role dramatically on the night.

The suspects are given a script and character backstory. They can only tell the truth, there are some things they must hide, and there are a couple of hints.

Ms Sewell said community members are encouraged to sign up to the company’s newsletter at creswicktheatre.com.au for news on the group’s four annual productions, and auditions.

“We’re very welcoming, and if you can sing, if you’re into comedy, pantomime or serious theatre, we’d be interested in you participating,” she said.

Visit bit.ly/3LzOvgl to book. There will be prizes for spring racing attire.