McCallie Middle School Theater will present the play The Alibis on Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. in the Black Box. Audience members are also welcome to attend the invited dress rehearsal on Thursday at 7 p.m.
The play is directed by Holly Morse-Ellington, with set and lighting design and prop assistance from Taylor Boyd and creative consultation from Jason Tinney. The student stage and tech crew have taken the lead on costumes and set management.
The show features seven mini-plays within the play, bookended by a prologue and epilogue. Ms. Morse-Ellington says, “It's been an exciting challenge (and adventure!) to block something like 200 entrances and exits with a cast and crew of over 50 students! I'm impressed by the focus of the young actors in taking direction – and bringing their own spin – on how to bring out the humor and zaniness of their characters.”
Review for The Alibis:
The Alibis is a thrilling whodunit murder mystery set in Savannah. The who's who of Savannah gather for the birthday event of the year at the mansion home of a prominent figure in town – only to discover they've become the primary suspects. Detective Casey Neptune and sidekick Warwick try to crack the case as the suspects' quirky alibis unfold before us. Who will be found guilty? And who will just be embarrassed by their wacky alibi?
"Expect some twists and turns (and belly laughs!) as the suspects dive into their whereabouts at the time of the murder. Even see if you can solve the case before Detective Neptune!" says Ms. Morse-Ellington.
The cast and crew have been rehearsing since January and they are thrilled to be returning to live theater with a joint McCallie-GPS production. With over 50 students participating in the show, it’s truly a collaborative ensemble.
"There's a tremendous amount of sweat, organization, and laughter that goes on behind the scenes – from the director to the cast to the tech and to parent support and to SO many people who help out – to arrive at our ultimate goal of showtime!” said Ms. Morse-Ellington. “For us, it's a journey that forms long-lasting friendships and amazing memories."
McCallie and GPS students and faculty will be admitted free of charge. General admission tickets can be purchased here or at the door.