Step back in time to 1943 for a dark, stormy night full of twists, backstabbing, and classic comedic mystery! The Encore Players invite you to audition for Joe DiPietro’s hilarious whodunit, An Old Fashioned Family Murder.

Brought to you by the Senior Readers Theater program at the Black Mountain Center for the Arts, this production is all about fun, community, and great storytelling—with no memorization required!

About the Show

When an arrogant mystery novelist reveals a shocking secret at Colonel Claythorne’s grand estate—that someone has been cut out of the family will—murder predictably follows. Everyone in the household is a suspect, from glamorous daughters to a dim-witted fiancé. While eager Detective Paul Peck tries to solve his very first murder case, it’s his meddling, razor-sharp mother, Mrs. Shirley Peck, whose motherly instincts unravel the truth.

Our Casting Philosophy

We practice age-blind casting and are open to gender-swapping roles. We care about your character’s vocal energy, personality, and enthusiasm—not chronological age or script constraints! Whether you’re a seasoned performer or stepping onto the stage for the first time, you are welcome here.

Open Roles

• Mrs. Shirley Peck: An unassuming, sharp-witted visiting widow who heavily "helps" her detective son solve the case.
• Clarice Claythorne: The Colonel’s eldest daughter—cold, glamorous, and dramatic like a classic film noir femme fatale.
• Dotty Claythorne: The Colonel’s youngest daughter—a mousy, excitable murder-mystery fanatic.
• Detective Paul Peck: Shirley’s eager, somewhat green son tackling his first big murder investigation.
• Arthur Whittington: A middle-aged, arrogant mystery novelist with an exaggerated English accent who starts all the drama.
• Jasper Jamison: Clarice’s handsome, dim-witted fiancé (a former country club pool boy) suspected of gold-digging.
• Sound Effects Performer: A crucial off-stage/on-stage role bringing the dark and stormy night to life through live sound cues!

Key Details

Audition Format: Cold readings from the script (no monologues or memorization needed!).

What to Bring: Reading glasses (if needed), a water bottle, your calendar to confirm rehearsal availability, and a passion for storytelling!

Schedule & Location

Auditions: Mon & Tue, Aug 17 & 18 | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Rehearsals: Tuesdays & Thursdays (6 total sessions) | Oct 6 – Oct 22 | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Performances: Oct 23, 24, & 25 | 2:00 PM Matinees