After more than a year of virtual performances, the Nazareth Academy theater program returns to the stage Oct. 28-30 with "Clue." Inspired by the well-known board game, "Clue" is a murder mystery with a funny side.
The 15-member cast of "Clue" includes a pair of juniors from Hinsdale who are excited to be back on the stage. Emma Francis and Harrison Gianares shared with The Hinsdalean some details about the show and their love of the stage.
Emma Francis
What do you have in common with your character, Mrs. White?
Nothing. She's a complete opposite of me. She's a serial killer who killed all five of her husbands. She's very scary.
What's the toughest part of playing this role?
Embodying the character. I have to show no emotions because I'm a murderer.
What the most rewarding role you've ever played?
Lumiere in "Beauty and the Beast." It was my eighth-grade year at St. Isaac Jogues and it's the first time I got a lead.
If you could play any part in any show, what would it be?
Sophie in "Mamma Mia" would be a dream role because "Mamma Mia" is one of my favorite movies and it is such an amazing and well-known show.
What do you enjoy most about being in "Clue?"
The smaller cast. Everyone is able to get to know each other really well.
Why should people come out to see "Clue?"
It's a live theater show. No one's been able to see a live show
for about two years.
Harrison Gianares
What do you have in common with your character, Professor Plum?
My character is open and loud about everything. I kind of share that similarity. I am who I am.
What's the toughest part of playing this role?
Knowing how to react to things. There are so many different emotions. He's a character who thinks he's better than anyone else.
What the most rewarding role you've ever played?
Gaston in "Beauty and the Beast." It's a similar character to Professor Plum, because he thinks he's better than anyone else.
If you could play any part in any show, what would it be?
It would be fun to do another Disney show. Someone fun, that people would enjoy and that people would be friends with.
What do you enjoy most about being in "Clue?"
Getting to meet everyone and getting to know them. The show becomes more of a conversation than just delivering lines.
Why should people come out to see "Clue?"
"Clue" is a really fun and interesting show. It's a chance to just enjoy something and enjoy a laugh. It's a really fun show to watch.
"Clue" will presented on the Romano Family Theatre stage, 1209 W. Ogden Ave., LaGrange Park, at 7 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Oct. 28-30. Tickets are $15 each and must be reserved by calling (708) 387-8515. All audience members will be required to wear masks.
- by Sandy Illian Bosch
