Tomorrow and Friday, South’s theatre department is set to present Exit the Body, a comedic murder mystery that promises to entertain all audiences.
Set in 1962, the hour-and-a-half play follows the main character Crane Hammond, played by senior Ella Mitaksov, who seeks a quiet retreat in a rural New England mansion, only to find herself entangled in a whirlwind of jewel thieves, unexpected twists, and disappearing bodies, hence the name Exit the Body.
According to Director Jennifer Forrest-James, this production of Exit the Body stands out from South’s previous renditions.
“This play was performed in 1978 here at South, but the current set is much larger than any show we’ve had in at least the last five years,” said Forrest-James.
The cast and crew share this view.
“Because of our unique [theater] space, we usually don’t build large sets. For this show, though, we have a detailed, expansive set with lots of doors, a beautiful platform, and walls. We’re all really excited,” said Lights and Sound Crew Chief Dylan Evans.
This larger-than-life set is essential for the frantic pace of the show.
“There are lots of doors opening and closing at the same time and lots of running around. We want everyone to perform successfully, but to do so safely,” Forrest-James said.
However, bringing such a large production to life is no simple task, commented Stage Manager Sienna Breen.
“Rehearsals are three hours every day after school, and those involved in stage tech also meet for up to four hours on Saturdays,” Breen said. “Every cast member and everyone behind the scenes has truly put their blood, sweat, and tears into making Exit the Body come to life.”
The diverse cast has also faced some unique challenges.
According to Breen, “Ella [Mitaksov] has never done theater before, but she’s insanely talented and picks up on things right away. So it’s been somewhat of a challenge getting her familiar with all the things that others already have experience with.”
Leila Chettfour plays Jenny in the play.
“I would say that the biggest challenge of this show was learning a New England accent because it’s not very common and it was hard to find any references,” she said.
But what can the audience expect from Exit the Body? According to Breen, “You’ll be laughing a whole lot and you can expect the thrill of a high-energy atmosphere.”
The play unfolds across three acts, each building upon the last to create a chaotic and entertaining finale.
“Towards the end of the show, it gets really fun. People pull out guns and there’s so much running! It’s something everyone should go and see,” Breen said.
Evans likewise shared her excitement for what’s to come, particularly in Act 3.
“I’m excited for them to see all of Act 3 because it’s super funny and most of it happens in really dark lighting, which makes the characters and the set look really cool. It also adds to the fun of the play,” she said.
Forrest-James also emphasized the importance of this play’s set design and costumes in contributing to the overall atmosphere and in representing the time period of the play.
“This show is set in 1962, so most of the costumes reflect styles from the late ’50s to the very early ’60s,” she said. “They are so important to establishing the world of the play and the characters who move within it. Without them, the audience would be confused. I would also add props, lighting, sound, and hair and makeup to that list. All the elements of tech work together to tell a cohesive story that the audience will understand, accept, and respond to.”
Chettfour couldn’t agree more.
“The clothing truly helps you feel more connected to the time period,” she said.
What you can expect to see isn’t just casual ’70s street style but rather formal dresswear from that era.
“We have lots of ’60s mod dresses, suits, and even some Go-Go boots,” Evans said.
The attention to detail in both costumes and set design promises to immerse the audience in the comedic chaos that unfolds throughout Exit the Body.
In the end, everything leads to a chaotic conclusion.
“I’m excited for the audience to watch the show because it’s a murder mystery, and I think it’ll be cool for the audience to see who did what, because you don’t really expect it,” said Chettfour.
Despite the murder-mystery backdrop, Forrest-James noted that “this play is written purely for entertainment. I hope the audience just laughs and enjoys the moment.”
Be sure to purchase your tickets to see the cast navigate this comedic journey filled with twists and turns. Prepare to immerse yourself in the unfolding chaos of Exit the Body and witness the laughter and surprises that South Theatre has to offer.
