Drood – The Mystery of Edwin Drood, November 11 – 28, 1998

It is the opening night of a musical melodrama, based on the Charles Dickens unfinished novel The Mystery of Edwin Drood, at the Music Hall Royale. The Chairman introduces the cast and the play begins. Edwin Drood is engaged to Rosa Bud, but his uncle John Jasper cherishes a secret passion for the young lady. When Reverend Crisparkle introduces a mysterious brother and sister recently arrived from Ceylon, a train of events begin which culminate in the mysterious disappearance of Edwin Drood. Has he been murdered? If so by whom? Who are the mysterious visitors, Princess Puffer and Datchery? In the town of Cloisterham, everyone has their secret. The History Charles Dickens died before completing his mystery novel and composer/playwright Rupert Holmes decided to turn this distinct shortcoming into a real theatrical asset. The show was Holmes\u27 very first musical, a unique blend of raucous music hall choruses and jokes, and high melodrama with beautiful, almost operatic melodies. The Tony award winning musical Drood, was a smash hit in both New York and London. Originating at the New York Shakespeare Festival, it transferred to Broadway, winning five Tony awards, including Best Musical, Best Book and Best Score and nine Drama Desk Awards. The broad humour, rollicking choruses and audience participation always a part of Victorian Music Hall are cleverly woven round a story told in high melodramatic style with soaring melodies and passion. Director: Christina James Choreographer: Stephen Greig Musical Director: Anthony Bastianonhttps://source.sheridancollege.ca/faad_visu_uniq_theatre/1095/thumbnail.jp