The Indiana Repertory Theatre’s production of “The Game’s Afoot” marks the first time I’ve ever seen a set receive a huge round of applause. The incredible thing is that the breath-taking grandeur of Russell Metheny’s set isn’t the only great thing about this show. The IRT closes its 42nd season with this incredibly entertaining play and anticipation is high for the start of their new season this fall.
Part farce and part whodunit, The Game’s Afoot is a playful mystery that pokes fun at actors and theatre critics alike. Matthew Brumlow plays the real life actor William Gillette who made Sherlock Holmes famous on the stage. Brumlow is the quintessential eccentric actor. He seems to have blurred the line between the famous detective he has portrayed and his own life. After being shot at the end of a performance, Gillette recovers in his mansion and welcomes his fellow cast members to visit on Christmas Eve.
This dream cast is wonderfully suited for the ensemble show. From Jennifer Johansen’s deliciously catty Daria Chase to Carmen Roman’s quirky Inspector Goring, there’s not a weak link in the group. The cherry on top is the return of IRT royalty, Priscilla Lindsay, back for the first time in four years to play Gillette’s sweet and dotty mother.
The show has a similar feel to Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap.” The costumes are another delightful element, creating statuesque gold silhouettes and trim 1940s women’s suits for the characters. In addition to the constant references to Sherlock Holmes, there are Shakespeare quotes sprinkled throughout the play. It’s a literary pleasure to watch the actor banter the lines back and forth with obvious ease. This frothy treat is a wonderful way to close out an excellent season of performances at the IRT.
The show has a similar feel to Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap.” The costumes are another delightful element, creating statuesque gold silhouettes and trim 1940s women’s suits for the characters. In addition to the constant references to Sherlock Holmes, there are Shakespeare quotes sprinkled throughout the play. It’s a literary pleasure to watch the actor banter the lines back and forth with obvious ease. This frothy treat is a wonderful way to close out an excellent season of performances at the IRT.
Don't Miss the Show
The Indiana Repertory Theatre is located at 140 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, one-half block west of the Circle Center Mall between northbound Illinois St. and southbound Capitol Ave. “The Game's Afoot" runs until Sunday, May 18 on IRT's Main Stage. Times for performances can be found at www.irtlive.com or by calling the IRT box office at (317) 635-5252. To purchase tickets call (317) 635-5252 or order online at www.irtlive.com
Photos Courtesy of Zach Rosing
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