Mystery at Somerset Valley Players’ Rehearsal for Murder

Hillsborough, NJ – When audience members enter the Somerset Valley Players theater to see their latest production, Rehearsal for Murder, and see a bare stage, they may think they missed the show. But they’d be wrong. The dark, empty stage is what sets this mystery apart.

“Rehearsal for Murder is a unique mystery. It’s not a typical Agatha Christie style play with the dead body laying on the floor,” explains Director Mike Muller. “The setting of the show is a darkened Broadway theater stage. Simple right? Instead, Rehearsal for Murder makes you question if a murder has even taken place. The bare bones set will help keep audiences engaged throughout; the focus is on the story.”

Rehearsal for Murder began as a 1982 television movie scripted by Richard Levenson and William Link, the prolific writes who created classic television mysteries like Columbo and Murder, She Wrote. The movie was adapted for the stage by D. D. Brooke. “The play version is a terrific adaptation and has an esteemed pedigree. Instead of Detective Columbo or Jessica Fletcher, the audience becomes the detective,” states Producer Emily Windus.

“The best part about directing mysteries is that both the audiences and the actors are committed to the story,” adds Muller. “I love it when I hear the audience say ‘I knew it’ or ‘it’s him not her.’ And I love it when the actors want the audience to be surprised. They all want the audience to think they’re the villain!”

Produced by Emily M. Windus and stage managed by Shannen Rivers, Rehearsal for Murder runs March 8-24 at the Somerset Valley Players theater on 689 Amwell Road (Rout 514) in Hillsborough. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 8 p.m. Sunday matinees start at 2 p.m. The theater is air conditioned, barrier free and wheelchair accessible.

For tickets and show times go to www.svptheatre.org.