A Murderous Romp of Comic Precision in ‘Clue: Live on Stage’
Few properties inspire as much nostalgic affection as Clue. Whether it’s the iconic Parker Brothers board game or the cult-favorite 1985 film adaptation, the whodunit comedy has remained a beloved staple in pop culture. Now, the stage adaptation, Clue: Live on Stage, a reimagining of the Tim Curry film of the same name, brings chaos, slapstick, and mystery to Detroit’s Fisher Theatre, running from February 4 to 9, 2025. Under the meticulous direction of Casey Hushion, this production captures the frantic energy of the film while infusing its own theatrical flair, making for a delightfully absurd evening of mayhem, murder, and mirth.
[Warning: Spoilers from the North American Tour of Clue: Live on Stage are below!]
A spirited cast embraces madness in this adaptation of a Parker Brothers classic
At the heart of this production is Wadsworth, the butler-turned-ringmaster of the evening’s escalating insanity, played with impeccable comedic timing by Jeff Skowron. Skowron’s performance is the linchpin of the entire show. He manages to exude both the control of a puppet master and the desperation of someone barely holding it all together. His precise physical comedy, quick-fire delivery, and unwavering commitment to Wadsworth’s escalating hysteria keep the audience riveted.
As Miss Scarlet, Christina Anthony exudes the perfect balance of sultry charm and exasperated wit, commanding attention with her sharp comedic instincts. John Shartzer’s Mr. Green is an audience favorite, reveling in bumbling physical humor with an endearing awkwardness that makes every pratfall and nervous tic land with precision. David Hess’ Colonel Mustard leans fully into the blustery bravado of the role, expertly delivering lines with just enough cluelessness to amplify the comedy.
Donna English’s Mrs. White is a standout, bringing a deliciously deadpan delivery to the character’s macabre musings about her many deceased husbands. Joanna Glushak’s Mrs. Peacock is the epitome of manic eccentricity, her bird-like movements and frantic shrieks becoming a comedic through line. Graham Stevens as Professor Plum and Alex Syiek as Mr. Boddy round out the ensemble, each playing their parts with just enough self-awareness to heighten the absurdity.
The supporting roles are equally strong. Elizabeth Yancey’s Yvette brings a playful, knowing energy to the French maid, while Mariah Burks’ Cook makes the most of her brief but memorable stage time. The entire ensemble functions like a well-oiled machine, each player leaning into the farce while never losing sight of the mystery at hand.
Director Casey Hushion has expertly orchestrated a play that relies on rapid pacing, split-second timing, and precisely choreographed slapstick. The physicality of the production is staggering. Actors dash through doorways, collapse in exaggerated death scenes, and engage in a series of carefully timed bits that feel effortless but are clearly the result of tight directorial control.
While the show revels in its cartoonish energy, it never becomes overwhelming, thanks to well-paced comedic beats that allow the audience to breathe before plunging into the next round of lunacy. The final act—a whirlwind recap of the night’s events—pushes the energy to its highest level, culminating in a madcap sprint through multiple possible endings. Here, Skowron’s Wadsworth truly shines, leading the audience through the convoluted “who, what, where, and why” with extraordinary agility.
Clue: Live on Stage! is a love letter to the film and game
For fans of the 1985 movie, Clue: Live on Stage is a loving tribute that doesn’t just rehash the film’s most famous moments, but expands upon them. The script by Sandy Rustin, with additional material by Hunter Foster and Eric Price, retains the film’s best lines while introducing fresh comedic bits that fit seamlessly into the world of the play. The nods to the board game (complete with familiar weapons and multiple endings) are woven into the show without feeling forced, ensuring that both longtime fans and newcomers will find plenty to enjoy.
At a time when theatrical comedy often leans into subtlety and nuance, Clue: Live on Stage is a breath of fresh air. It embraces its silliness with unabashed enthusiasm, delivering a tightly executed farce that keeps audiences laughing from beginning to end. The stellar cast, razor-sharp direction, and impressive technical design combine to create a production that is as smart as it is ridiculous.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the film, a lover of classic whodunits, or simply in need of a night of belly laughs, Clue at the Fisher Theatre is a must-see. By the time the final bow is taken and the last body drops, one thing is certain: murder has never been this much fun.
Clue Live on Stage is currently in Detroit at The Fisher Theatre and will be there until February 9th! Get your tickets from Broadway in Detroit! Also, catch this show when it comes to a city near you on its North American tour! Have you seen this show? Let us know on social media @mycosmiccircus or @boxseatbabes!
Exclusive Interview: Graham Stevens & Jeff Skowron of Clue Live on Stage!
