By Shelby Coleman
This week, the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company opened their production of The Play That Goes Wrong which tells the story of a community theatre’s attempt at producing The Murder at Haversham Manor. The production provides the perfect comedic relief for hot summer evenings. Complete with audience participation, CSC has created a new universe for all to escape.
The Story
The story follows a performance of a murder mystery, where the ill-fated theatre company encounters numerous mishaps. The Play That Goes Wrong follows the Cornley Drama Society as they attempt to stage a 1920s murder mystery. The performance quickly descends into chaos as props disappear, actors go missing, and the set collapses, leading to a series of hilarious mishaps. The plot centers around an untimely death at a country manor. Inspector Carter is called upon to solve the mystery, resulting in a riotous and entertaining experience for audiences.
Performances feature Cincinnati Shakespeare pros
Jeremy Dubin leads this incredible ensemble as Inspector Carter (Chris Bean), the head of the drama society. Dubin is no stranger to the CSC stage and brings another excellent performance to audiences young and old. He captivates audience members with his uncanny ability to jump between his melodramatic role as the inspector and the horrified drama society member. He gives a look behind the curtain into the unrestrained quest for the spotlight that small town drama societies might find familiar. The mannerisms and unique control of tone and tempo in Dubin’s voice creates a hilarious and authentic performance.
The entire cast gives a magnificent portrayal that not only exudes complete dexterity and understanding of the script, but pure love for what they’re putting together. The hilarity of this production falls to every member of the production including the back stage crew.
Candice Handy plays the coveted role of Annie, the stage manager. Handy is seen traipsing through the house before the start of show; desperately trying to finish all the last minute fixes needed to have a successful Opening Night. She captures the desperation (and subsequent detached numbness) that can accompany a hectic rehearsal process leading to a chaotic Opening. Handy plays the role of used and abused crew member to a T. When finally told by an actor to exit the stage while trying to fix a crucial set piece, Handy hits her final straw and leaves the actors to their own devices. Her vast understanding of physical acting allows her to bring Stage Manager Annie to a level of insanity that is truly hilarious while remaining authentic and believable.
Demanding, Physical Acting
The physicality of all the actors in this production is truly astounding. It takes incredible control to create some of the scenarios. These actors are able to remain in their over-the-top tropes while performing physical feats that can only be compared to attending a CrossFit class. Creating an exaggerated character is exhausting on its own but combining that with the physical asks of this production shows just how incredible this team is.
Cincinnati Shakespeare Creative Leadership
The set of this production must deliver what CSC audiences expect of our regional professional theatre’s design skills, while looking like a small drama society has pieced it together with limited resources. Audiences can appreciate small nuances like fake book spines and unfinished props. Scenic designer Samantha Reno was able to achieve the look of slipshod construction, while ensuring safety for the actors. This, paired with the wonderful moments of audience participation and chaos throughout the house, fully immersed audiences in the world of the Cornely Drama Society.
Director, Brian Isaac Phillips thrills audiences yet again with his uncanny ability to bring high quality, accessible shows to the CSC stage. Phillips vision paired with the skilled choices of fight coordinator Gina Cerimele-Mechley, brings this Broadway-quality production to life. The Opening Night audience reflected all ages and walks of life, yet each person had the same reaction: pure laughter and joy. Audience members cheer for each other as they have small moments on the stage or shout out answers to questions in the show.
This show gives you the perfect break from the stresses and conflicts of everyday life and allows you enjoy a light hearted story that you’re not forced to think too hard about. The Play That Goes Wrong is the perfect escape.
Overall
This production is a must-see!
The Play That Goes Wrong is a hilarious farce that combines physical comedy with a chaotic plot. It is a must-see for fans of slapstick humor and theatrical mishaps. CSC has created the perfect carefree evening to add to your summer schedule. Delivered with excellent timing and electrifying stamina, you can’t afford to miss this hilarious whodunit! Grab your tickets now because this one is sure to sell out!
Tickets to Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s The Play That Goes Wrong
The Play That Goes Wrong runs through August 10, 2025 Theater 1195 Elm St, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Tickets can be purchased at the box office, online at The Play That Goes Wrong | Cincy Shakes, or by calling 513-381-2273.
Shelby Coleman has a background in theatre education and dance, including the Director of Artistic and Educational Programs with the Surry Arts Council in North Carolina where she directed, choreographed, designed and taught for students throughout North Carolina and Virginia. Shelby has a background in teaching students diagnosed with various physical, mental, and learning disabilities. Shelby has taught at various institutes across the country including Lexington Children’s Theatre, Shooting Stars YouTheatre, Missoula Children’s Theatre, StageRight MTC Inc, Morehead State University, Surry Community College, Surry Arts Council, Ryle High School, Surry County Schools, Millennium Charter Academy, Cincinnati Public Schools, Boone County Public Libraries, Kenton County Public Libraries, Grant County Public Libraries and now The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati.
