Sometimes visiting a new theatre can feel slightly intimidating—Where do I park? Where do I go?—but the journey to Peterloon Estate for The Story Collective’s production of Clue the Musical is worth it.
After turning off Montgomery Road and winding past the gatehouse on Hopewell Road, the long drive reveals a stunning mansion that feels equal parts Downton Abbey and Bridgerton. Before the show begins, audience members wander through elegant rooms, admiring carved fireplaces, wainscoting, portraits, and sweeping architectural details. Finally, three rows of chairs face an enormous fireplace in a thrust configuration. The setting alone promises mystery.
Then the game begins.
The Game is Afoot
Inspired by the the classic Parker Brothers game, Mr. Boddy (Justin Hanks) invites the audience to participate in the evening’s mystery, selecting confidential cards that determine the murderer, weapon, and location. Narrating in rhyme, he guides us through a series of musical introductions as each colorful suspect reveals their story.
Mrs. White (Jocelyn Sluka going all in with a Cockney accent), preparing dinner in the Kitchen, sings “Life is a Bowl of Pits” while lamenting her financial dependence on Mr. Boddy. In the Billiard Room, the delightfully slick Mr. Green (John Woll) clashes with Boddy over shady business dealings. Mrs. Peacock (Kristin Schisler) flirts boldly in the Ballroom with Col. Mustard (John Dorney) as they play a version of Twister, full of innuendo. Miss Scarlet (Kayla Stroud), Professor Plum (Spencer Smith) round out a cast of characters with motives to spare.
After dinner, the murder occurs—though, in true game fashion, Mr. Boddy rises again to help us sift through the clues. A detective (Karly Kuhn) assists the audience in reviewing the evidence before submitting their guesses. Multiple people were correct, and one was chosen to win a small prize. With multiple possible endings, even returning viewers won’t know how the night concludes.
Performances and Production
The cast’s task is no small one: they must be prepared for every possible outcome. That challenge is met with enthusiasm.
John Woll’s Mr. Green anchors the ensemble with a rich, confident voice and a clear sense of comic style. Sluka’s Mrs. White is playful and committed, particularly in her physical comedy. As the run continues, the ensemble will likely grow even broader and bolder in their campy instincts, sharpening the timing and fully leaning into the farce. Justin Hanks clearly relishes his role as host, delivering the rhymed narration with impish energy. In a post–Alan Cumming Traitors era, however, the bar for deliciously manipulative master-of-ceremonies theatrics is sky-high. Leaning further in could elevate the mischief even more.
Director Susan Jung cast the show well and uses the mansion’s multiple entrances and alcoves effectively. The pacing could benefit from trimming some extended transitions and tightening moments of audience interaction; opening night ran close to two hours, though it feels destined to settle nearer ninety minutes as performances continue.
Pianist Eric Knechtges propels the score from atmospheric prelude to lively finish. At times, the piano overpowers some vocals, but the ensemble harmonies, guided by vocal director Gabe Hoyer, are strong, with Stroud and Schisler soaring on high notes.
Costumes by Jennah Blair boldly embrace the board game’s primary color palette, with Colonel Mustard’s look a particular standout. While additional lighting design could heighten the mood, Jung acknowledged the financial realities of mounting a production in such a unique venue. For a young company investing in both rights and space, the ambition on display is impressive.
Clue the Musical was written by Peter DePietro (book), Tom Chiodo (lyrics), and Galen Blum, Wayne Barker, and Vinnie Martucci (music) and premiered in 1995.
Overall
Overall this is an immersive evening from beginning to end, set in the luscious Peterloon Estate.
The Story Collective is a scrappy, savvy, spirited group positioning itself as northern Cincinnati’s regional theatre. With Jung at the helm, that goal feels attainable. Notably, the audience skews young—many well under the age of fifty—a promising sign for long-term community building.
Beyond the stage, the company’s digital outreach is current and inviting, from personalized emails to engaging social media content. It’s clear they understand how to cultivate both experience and audience.
Clue the Musical runs February 26–28 and March 5–7 at Peterloon Estate. Arrive by 7:00 p.m. for a 7:30 curtain—and consider exploring the mansion before the mystery unfolds. Get tickets HERE.
