The Bear Stage Players are putting together their 2025 performance based on the mystery/comedic boardgame, “Clue!”. The production crew and cast will be setting up preparations for the upcoming show with a combination of determination and constant productivity. The performance will be open to the public for the first time at 7 p.m. on Nov. 6 in the auditorium.
While audiences enjoy the humor and suspense on stage, much of the hard work behind the scenes often goes unnoticed.
“Most of the time people don’t realize how many technical details go into a show,” stage director Jade Marlatt said. “From the smallest earrings a character wears to the lighting during a scene, a dedicated team is constantly working to make everything just right.”
According to Marlatt, what makes her most proud is the dedication and growth of the cast.
“I’m most proud of the cast’s commitment to theater,” Marlatt said. “Putting on a play is a long and sometimes stressful process, but by the end, the cast grows close and gains experiences that will benefit them in many areas of life.”
The ultimate goal for this production goes beyond just putting on a good show.
“We want to create a memorable experience that not only entertains but inspires people to get involved in the arts,” Marlatt said.
One of the most exciting parts of the show is seeing the actors stretch their skills and step into new roles.
“My favorite part is watching the actors’ range,” Marlatt said. “Seeing them create characters very different from ones they’ve played before.”
Of course, every production has its challenges. For this show, the cast had to master the art of comedy.
“A lot of the cast had to learn how to deliver jokes naturally, as if they weren’t rehearsed, which is one of the hardest things to do in acting.” Marlatt said.
Compared to last year’s more serious productions, this year’s show has a lighter, funnier vibe.
“This show is definitely more comedic than the serious, complex shows we did previously,” Marlatt said.
The well-organized team structure also made preparing for the show much smoother.
“We have a clear hierarchy, with specific people in charge of each part of the production,” Marlatt said. “This helps reduce confusion and keeps everything running smoothly.
Technically, this year’s production features some exciting innovations.
“We’re designing rotating sets to make the performance multidimensional, trying to capture the feel of the original Broadway show despite our limited stage space,” Marlatt said.
As opening night approaches, excitement is building, especially around the set.
“I’m most excited to see the set fully put together,” Marlatt said. “It’s always amazing to see the creativity and hard work the tech team brings to life.”
