ARTS & CULTURE
Kimberly Marsh
Photo, Clue Live Onstage.com
The classic detective board game that was turned into a 1985 movie is now coming to life on a Tulsa stage. Celebrity Attractions presents “Clue: A New Comedy” at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center from Feb. 11-14, 2025.
The tale begins at a remote mansion, where six mysterious guests assemble for an unusual dinner party. Murder, blackmail, and good comedy are on the menu. When their host turns up dead, they all become suspects. Led by Wadsworth – the butler, Miss Scarlet, Professor Plum, Mrs. White, Mr. Green, Mrs. Peacock, and Colonel Mustard race to find the killer as the body count stacks up.
Cast member Teddy Trice examines the play and offers insights in this question-and-answer profile. Trice plays the Unexpected Cop (and is Colonel Mustard’s understudy), who gets called to the mansion because of a tip about an abandoned car left at the gates of Boddy Manor. Upon his investigation, he is taken on a wild ride during the most chaotic and high-stakes moment of the show. He invites Tulsa to join in the game.
How does this stage adaptation compare to the classic 1985 film?
Sandy Rustin, our playwright, did a masterful job preserving the comedy and integrity of the film while also giving the stage production an exciting, fresh perspective. Our stage adaptation is incredibly fast-paced, with our own twists and turns to keep the audience guessing.
What has been the most exciting part of preparing for this production?
The most exciting part is getting the opportunity to share this piece across the country. In each new city, we sound-check and rehearse a list of technical elements for the local crew. It’s the first time we step onto the stage and take everything in before the audience arrives. Certainly, an exciting part of the preparation.
Clue is a mix of comedy and mystery—how do you balance the two on stage?
Comedy is the result of expecting one thing but receiving another. Mystery constantly keeps you guessing. When you don’t know what to expect, and the circumstances are outrageous, it manages to blend the two genres in an effective way.
Can you share any fun or unexpected moments from rehearsals?
Casey Hushion, our director, is one of the most clever, smart, and tenacious directors working today. She’s also hilarious. One of her favorite songs is “Yeah!” by Usher. She would play it to pump us up or after a great rehearsal. Worked every time.
Without giving too much away, what should audiences pay extra attention to during the performance?
Good question. All I’d say is (to) pay close attention to the motives.
What do you hope Tulsa audiences take away from this production?
I was drawn to the role because it’s a thrill to be a part of an ensemble of characters that so many people know and love. I also feel a bit like the voice of reason juxtaposed to the larger-than-life suspects. It’s a lot of fun. I hope audiences leave feeling sore with laughter and are immersed in the story as if they were back playing the board game.
What is your background?
I was born and raised in Kansas City, Mo., and now live in New York City. I started acting when I was 12, and theatre and the arts have been a part of my life ever since. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from Drury University in Springfield, Mo. I’ve been truly grateful to call it my career. In addition to “Clue,” I was on Broadway in “The Book of Mormon,” the Australian tour of “Come From Away,” along with numerous Off-Broadway and regional productions.
For Trice’s updates from the road, visit @teddytrice on Instagram.
Tickets are available now. For more information, visit the Tulsa Performing Arts Center’s website, tulsapac.org, or call 918-596-7111.
