South Okanagan Amateur Players (SOAP) debuted “The Play That Goes Wrong,” directed by Diane Gludovatz, last weekend at Venables Theatre in Oliver, and the cast and crew did not disappoint.
This Olivier Award winner for Best Comedy is the fourth longest running play in London’s West End, and for good reason. A play within a play is the setting for hilarious hijinks while the inept but earnest actors of the “Cornley Drama Society” attempt to put on the classic early 20th century mystery, “The Murder at Haversham Manor”.
As the title may suggest, things do not go entirely according to plan. From emergency cast substitutions, looping line miscues, all the way to the chaotic carnage of the intricate set mishaps, SOAP brings their A game, and the fun begins as soon as you enter the theatre.
The Play That Goes Wrong.
SOAP photo
Examine the luscious set, designed with precision and care by Craig Bjornson. Imagine every actor’s worst nightmares, and try to guess what calamities the evening has in store. It’s a fair bet that it will be even worse than you think.
Charles Haversham has perished during what should be the celebration of his engagement. His friends, family, fiancee, and employees, as well as the classic visiting “Inspector” all try to unravel the mystery, even as the production unravels around them, despite their best efforts.
It’s a mash-up of Hercule Poirot meets Mr. Bean, and the attention to detail, immensely physical comedy and intricate set design will leave you gasping with laughter (and occasionally shock).
Two shows remaining – Friday, Nov. 22, and Saturday, Nov. 23, at the Venables Theatre. Doors open at 7 p.m., curtain time is 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available on the SOAP website or at the Venables Theatre Box Office, 6100 Gala Street, Oliver, phone 250-498-1626. Show your tickets at the Firehall Brewery to receive 10 per cent off your meal, for the perfect date night.
Contributed by Carrie Shogan, SOAP Executive Producer.
