The Little Theatre of Virginia Beach wasted no time in setting the stage for their newest production, “A Murder is Announced.” Inside the lobby, the cast board had conspiracy theory string connecting each cast member and the murder announcement was posted front and center. With the eerie mood properly set, our group took a stab at determining the murderer just by reviewing the casting board (no spoilers as we had no idea: I went with Edmund Swettenham, my companions went with Inspector Craddock and Miss Marple). Upon taking our seats, we examined the stage for any clues. All we could determine was that set designer Kathryn Pinner had done a wonderful job creating an English manor.

As with most Agatha Christie works, the play begins by introducing the cast of characters (or in the case of murder mysteries, suspects) and poking holes in their identities and relationships. Alana Dodds Sharp played her role of Leititia Blacklock, the owner of the English manor, beautifully. Even when the spotlight is not directly focused on her, her reactions contribute greatly to the overall scene. Inspector Craddock (played by Marc Dyer) and Miss Marple (Ann Heywood) have great chemistry: not romantic chemistry in this case but the hilarious chemistry of a grizzled detective and a mystery reader who always identifies the culprit before the grand reveal. These two have a nice pitter-patter that allows for the audience to receive many theories and clues.

The boarders of the manor are all various levels of suspicious. Brother and sister, Patrick and Julia Simmons (played by Michael McOsker-of LTN’s Urinetown-and Grace Perry respectively) have only recently started living with their aunt who they had not seen since childhood. McOsker and Perry have a nice rapport with each other, constantly squabbling good-naturedly. Philipa Haymes (portrayed by Madeleine Dilley), the young widow, comes to the town with no references. Dilley brings a regalness to the character that reminded me of her times as nobility in LTVB’s “Much Ado About Nothing.” Beth Buchanan does a marvelous job acting as Dora Bunner, longtime friend of Leititia Blacklock. Buchanan brings a hilarity to the wise fool role. The last boarder is actually an employee: Eastern European immigrant and cook Mitzi. Destinee Kiara’s well-timed, “Thank you … You’re Welcome” made me laugh each time. The final characters/suspects are busy-body neighbors Mrs. Swettenham (Lisa Annunziato) and Edmund Swettenham (played by John Moss at the performance we saw, but will be portrayed by Kobie Smith April 12 – 14). The mother/son dynamic between Annunziato and Moss felt true to life.

This play takes place between Friday the 13^th and the following Monday. Within this time period, there are three to four outfit changes for the characters. Karen Buchheim and Kathryn Pinner outfitted the characters to the nines! Wig/hairstyle designer Marilyn Abernathy ensured that each character’s coiffe fit the 1940s era beautifully.

LTVB shows sell out fast. The tickets were already sold out for the whole run on the night we saw the show. If you’re interested in seeing something at LTVB get your tickets early or you won’t be able to test your skills and determine if, like Miss Marple, you can identify the culprit! You won’t regret it.  That’s our only advice.  Thank you… you’re welcome.