‘Curtains’ at HPU promises comedic intrigue
By Liz Reichart// A&E Editor
Calling all old-school lovers of theatre: the production to suit your every high-kicking need has arrived at the Hayworth Fine Arts Pauline Theatre. “Curtains” is a musical, a mystery and a comedy all rolled into one and is based on the book of the same name by Peter Stone.
The eclectic gang of musical minds that created the show itself are an attest to how absolutely bonkers the production is. The “Curtains” book is by Rupert Holmes, who is best known for writing the song “Escape (The Pina Colada Song).” Fred Ebb and John Kander, who wrote for performers such as Chita Rivera and Liza Minelli, wrote the lyrics and music respectively.
Set in 1959 Boston, “Curtains” tells the story of a stage star murdered during her opening night curtain call. The star of the show, Jessica Cranshaw, is a faded star without talent whose murder is investigated by Lieutenant Frank Cioffi, a police detective who moonlights as a musical theater fan. During his investigation, he encounters love, deceit, and has to avoid getting killed himself.
Alex Siegal, an HPU senior and member of the HPU Department of Theatre, is an ensemble member in the production. He claims that his favorite character in the show is Carmen Bernstein, the comical stage manager with an unhappy marriage. Siegal says that the rewarding part of “Curtains” for him is working with his fellow student actors and actresses. “It is absolutely amazing to work with such talented and dedicated people who love this craft,” Siegal said. “Getting to perform with them on the stage is something that I cherish and wouldn’t trade for anything. Being around people who love what you love is special.”
The songs in this show will have you kicking in the aisles and crying of laughter. Siegal points to “Show People” as one of his favorite songs – the tune is a banter between the cast members where they ultimately decide that, yes, the show must go on.
“Students should come see ‘Curtains’ because it is a hilarious murder mystery that has nonstop laughs,” Siegal said. “There is also a lot of dancing in this show. The cast has worked so hard for almost three months to put this show together and the final product is just amazing. This is why I love theatre. To perform for people and make them happy is what I love to do.”
“Curtains” is onstage at the Hayworth Fine Arts Center Nov. 17-19 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 20 at 2 p.m. A limited number of complimentary tickets will be available at the Campus Concierge desk for HPU students, faculty, and staff with a valid HPU Passport I.D. A limited number of complimentary tickets will be available for the general public by contacting the HPU Campus Concierge at 336-841-4636 or concierge@highpoint.edu.