Theater Review: CLUE at The Fabulous Fox

Clue, originally known as Cluedo, was created in 1943 by British board game designer Anthony E. Pratt, who ultimately sold the rights to Parker Brothers and then Hasbro. The classic murder-mystery game later inspired the 1985 film Clue, starring Tim Curry and an unforgettable ensemble cast. Although the film received mixed reviews upon its release, its sharp comedy and fun take on the whodunit genre helped it become a cult classic. Decades later, both the game and film continue to attract devoted fans. That continued affection has now made its way to the stage in Clue, a delightfully funny play that pays loving tribute to its source material

Similar to its counterparts, Clue takes place at Boddy Manor, a New England mansion in the 1950s. A cast of characters arrive one by one to attend a dinner party hosted by the mysterious Mr. Boddy. Unfortunately, a series of murders occur, setting up the dinner guests to try to discern the suspect, the room and with what weapon. Sandy Rustin’s script, based on the screenplay by Jonathan Lynn, is filled with puns, physical comedic humor and wordplay. It leans heavily into the farce comedies from authors like Shakespeare, George S. Kaufman, Ray Cooney and Michael Frayn. The pace is fast. Very rarely are there moments not setting up or delivering a punchline for a joke.

While the play is undoubtedly a pleasure because of the talents of the entire ensemble, Adam Brett as Wadsworth is a standout, particularly in the final scene. Yet the production succeeds because there is no weak link in the cast. The actors work together cohesively and leave the audience constantly watching for the next actor to take their comedic bow. Even as the characters delve deep into their stereotypes (the professor, the black widow, the colonel, etc.), they never become caricatures. The comedy is primarily character driven and this cast executes this exceptionally well.

The costumes, set and lighting design are playful and reinforce the comedic mysteriousness of the play, but ultimately the strength of Clue lies in the concept created by Pratt and then transformed for the stage by Rustin and Lynn. The play is short at just 120 minutes with no intermission, although one is not needed and would take away from the momentum of the production.

Fans of Clue, the movie or game, will adore the fast-paced comedy that earns its place alongside its beloved counterparts. Yet no previous knowledge is required to join in the fun. Newcomers will enjoy the hilarity of the characters and their frantic search for suspects and weapons throughout the rooms of the mansion.

Clue plays at the Fabulous Fox Theatre through October 4th.

Photos by Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade