Marriott Theatre’s Murder for Two a Bonafide Musical Comedy Hit
Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire consistently provides some of the best theatre in the greater Chicagoland area, and is often on par with the level of talent seen on Broadway stages. Needless to say, the company’s newest undertaking does not miss the mark.
Simply put, Marriott Theatre’s Murder for Two is a masterful piece of entertainment.
The witty comedy is a musical murder mystery with a small-town police officer trying to earn a promotion to detective by solving the who done it crime.
To make things entertaining, all accompaniment is provided onstage by the skilled pianists in the cast.
To add to the mayhem of the story and the delight of the audience, the cast features only two actors, with one actor as the policeman and the other actor playing all twelve of the murder suspects. Both demonstrate great keyboard skill.
In the multiple roles of The Suspects, Jason Grimm provides a virtuoso performance. Each character is well-defined both physically and vocally, with total believability and humor to boot. Characters of both sexes range in age from child to senior citizen.
Not to be left out of the spotlight, Noel Carey as police officer Marcus Moscowicz is the glue that keeps the story together and allows for Grimm to shine in spectacular fashion. It is not surprising that Carey played the role previously in the National Tour.
The musical features book and music by Joe Kinosian and book and lyrics by Kellen Blair. Direction by Scott Weinstein provides for an ingenious use of the stage and well-choreographed physical humor. Music direction by Matt Deitchman enables Carey and Grimm to shine vocally and tickling the ivories of the onstage grand piano.
Set designer Scott Davis works magic with the intimate space, employing a rotating set to give every seat in the house a clear view of the action. Lighting design by Jesse Klug, sound design by Robert E. Gilmartin, and costumes by Emily Arnold add to the over enjoyment of the theatrical event.
This is a hilarious romp that is sure to entertain. Expect Marriott Theatre’s Murder for Two to be a big player come awards season. It is that good.
