The Game's Afoot
at Archbishop McCarthy High School

Reviewed on November 5, 2022

Avery Redlich
NSU University School
Submitted for publication to www.floridatheateronstage.com

Watson, the game's afoot! A! F! O! O! T! Archbishop McCarthy High School's production of "The Game's Afoot" had audiences on the edges of their seats and rolling on the floor (which, it seems, is NOT where a body should be!). With a powerhouse ensemble-cast, outstanding comedic chemistry, and phenomenal work behind-the-scenes, the Maverick Players supplied a bloody good time.

Written by the brilliant Ken Ludwig, published by Samuel French, Inc., premiering in November of 2011 at the Cleveland Playhouse, and winning the 2012 Edgar Award for Best Play, nothing says, "Merry Christmas, you're dead," quite like this energy-filled farce. On Christmas Eve, 1936, William Gillette (the star of Sherlock Holmes on Broadway) invites his vibrant castmates to his Connecticut mansion with a holiday to celebrate and a mystery to unravel; however, the mystery multiplies when a party guest is murdered. There's nothing like foul play to get people in the holiday spirit!

Luis Granda brought a Sherlockian-charm to William, delivering lines with consistent energy and eccentricity. Bella Nanavichit displayed an impressive range of emotion with a finale character shift that expertly shattered her innocent-Aggie façade and established a knife-in-the-back feeling of shock and betrayal.

Speaking of knives in the back, Isabella Ruiz was masterfully malicious in the role of Daria. Ruiz was able to utilize screams as audience cues for laughter and "die" rather spectacularly (multiple times). Ryan Cullen (Felix) proved far more than a "lump of roast beef": his histrionic physicality, particularly prevalent in his scenes moving Daria's body, added dynamic laughter to already hilarious moments. And Tamara Toma (quite literally) killed as momma Martha, with impeccable comedic timing and murderously funny vocal and postural choices.

While the game was a foot, a hand must be given to Stage Manager Julia Kim. Commendably, all lighting, sound, and staging cues were impeccably met, allowing jokes to thrive and suspense to climb. Lighting aptly elevated the varying moods, evidenced by the bright red spotlights during the seance "possession" scene and the blackout-moments that cleverly maintained the mystery of the murders; external audios and sound effects were brilliantly trickled throughout the play, building the classic whodunit ambience. The set effectively boosted the holly-jolly spirit every murder-mystery needs, complete with a hidden trapdoor speakeasy. While the student crew faced dilemmas regarding the functionality of the set-piece during the show's development, they found a solution that was reflected in the seamless success of the spinning wall. Ruiz and Kim also achieved success in the publicity realm with an engaging Instagram presence, creative lollipop distribution marketing tactic, and shirts proudly sported by the crew.

Whodunit? Well, Archbishop McCarthy High School certainly did, as the cast and crew achieved an exceptional range of expression. The Maverick Players' performance of "The Game's Afoot" beamed with holiday hilarity, striking cast chemistry, and stunning stage management from beginning to end, creating a production that was truly to die for.

Ellie Esquenazi
NSU University School
Submitted for publication to www.floridatheateronstage.com

It's December of 1936 and holiday cheer is all around, but for some, this Christmas isn't too jolly. Full of murder, secrets, and love, Archbishop McCarthy High School's production of "The Game's Afoot" leaves audiences dying for another chance to watch.

"The Game's Afoot," originally published in November of 2012, was written by Ken Ludwig, writer of notable plays such as "Lend Me a Tenor" and "Crazy for You." The play combines comedy and mystery to create a unique farce style show full of gimmicks and charades. The play centers itself around William Gillette, an actor known best for playing Sherlock Holmes, who invites his fellow actors to join him for Christmas at his Connecticut estate. All seems festive, until one guest is stabbed to death, and the Christmas joy turns into fear, confession, and grave danger.

Playing the passionate and playful actor, Luis Granda (William Gillette) brought energy and enthusiasm to his role. As the innocent ingénue, Bella Nanavichit (Aggie Wheeler) excellently emoted in both moments of naivety and moments of aggression. Her stage presence was captivating, and her grief was convincing when discussing her late husband.

Portraying the witty, headstrong actress, Mia Martinez (Madge Geisel) was incredibly convincing, especially in her fake possession in the séance moment. Acting opposite her, Ryan Cullen (Felix Geisel) played the exaggerated and striking husband. Cullen's comedic timing and superb physicality made him shine onstage. Together, the pair held great chemistry as a couple struggling to maintain peace with one another. Another standout featured actor was Tamara Toma (Martha Gillette), who remarkably utilized movement and vocal fluctuation to portray the opinionated yet glamorous elderly woman.

Despite some minor diction issues, the cast overall held immense energy throughout the show, and the physical comedy added a great element. The actors' originality made the show feel natural and authentic.

The technical components of this production added to the total success. The stage manager, Julia Kim, masterfully executed all aspects of her role. The lighting and sound cues were consistently timed, and the show's pacing was smooth. Additionally, the Marketing and Publicity team, Julia Kim and Isabella Ruiz, should be commended for their clever and creative promotion of the show, utilizing social media and other forms of advertising effectively.

With so much talent and spirit, the cast had the audience caroling for more. It's certainly not classified; Archbishop McCarthy High School's production of "The Game's Afoot" was "one of the biggest scoops of the whole year!"

Maddie Musso
NSU University School
Submitted for publication to www.floridatheateronstage.com

Would the holiday season truly be complete without Christmas carols, family disputes, and MURDER? May all your days be merry and filled with fright as you are transported into "The Game's Afoot" at Archbishop McCarthy High School on Christmas Eve night!

Written by Tony and Edgar award winner, Ken Ludwig, and first published in 2012, "The Game's Afoot" follows the story of the successful Broadway star, William Gillette, and his fellow cast members as they embark on a weekend getaway in an isolated Connecticut castle. However, the celebrations at this remote home of trickery rapidly become perilous when Daria, an unexpected visitor, is fatally stapped to death. When his so-called friends and family quickly become suspects, it is up to Gillette to embody his beloved identity of Holmes in order to catch the killer.

Playing the ingénue of the cast, Aggie Wheeler, Bella Nanavichit embodied the newlywed sweetheart to a tee with major character development throughout the duration of the play. With her bright-eyed persona in act one, but a dark-sided manipulative wife in act two, Nanavichit displayed a wide range of emotional progression and a clear understanding of her character's motives. Captivating the audience with their magnetic chemistry and impeccable comedic timing, Felix Geisel (Ryan Cullen) and Madge Geisel (Mia Martinez) exhibited an instant stage connection with commendable character choices and time period-appropriate mannerisms.

Portraying the outspoken mother of William Gillette, Martha Gillette (Tamara Toma) poured herself into this character, creating a hilarious role that the audience fell in love with. From her comedic one-liners to the way she walked up the stairs like an elderly woman, her dedication to the role was unwavering, which led to a standout performance by Toma. Commanding the stage with her egocentric attitude, Isabella Ruiz, playing the role of Daria Chase, utilized her scathing voice and slapstick comedy to bring her own element of talent to the group of actors. As an entire ensemble, the cast of The Game's Afoot had wonderful chemistry and undeniable talent. With clear character distinctions, constant storytelling, and minor faults in line delivery, this cast exhibited an advanced level of professionalism and cohesion.

Bringing this performance to life with punctual light cues, timely sound effects, and an in-depth analysis of the script, Julia Kim demonstrated herself as a dependable leader behind the scenes. With smooth transitions and perfect timing with the revolving door, the magic of this Connecticut castle was brought to life by Kim and her crew.

With captivating plot twists, murderously funny humor, and a play full of suspense, Archbishop McCarthy High School's performance of "The Game's Afoot" left everyone on the edge of their seat and wondering whodunit.

Jack Steinman
NSU University School
Submitted for publication to www.floridatheateronstage.com

Blending classic "whodunit" comedy with sneaky slapstick tension, "The Game's Afoot" at Archbishop McCarthy High School was a present under the Christmas tree!

"The Game's Afoot," or "Holmes for the Holidays," was written by Ken Ludwig, known for his witty farces. Featuring the lively Rob McClure, the show opened in 2011 at the Cleveland Play House, winning the Edgar Award for Best Mystery of the Year in 2012. "The Game's Afoot" takes place during the 1936 holiday season, where the famed Broadway actor William Gillette is starring as Sherlock Holmes until he's shot in the arm during his closing bow. Taking a mysterious turn, the rest of the show focuses on Gillette's Connecticut mansion, where the loathed theater critic Darla Chase and the cast of Sherlock Holmes are invited to stay. When one of the houseguests is found dead, lies are revealed, inspectors are called, and hilarity ensues.

Luis Granda (William Gillette) played his role with charm and wit, leading the show with authentic acting choices. Bella Nanavichit (Aggie Wheeler) was dazzling, dynamic, decisive, and deadly. With sharp characterization, Nanavichit demonstrated strong comedy and dedication as her character grew in act two. Nanavichit should also be praised for her striking chemistry with Steven Camacho (Simon Bright). As Aggie's new husband, Camacho added flair to his character, bringing laughs with it; onstage, Camacho's comedy shined through his one-liners.

Enter stage right, Ryan Cullen (Felix Geisel) and Mia Martinez (Madge Geisel), appear with dramatic prose in hand and chemistry in the air. As the theatrical couple, Cullen and Martinez had poignant chemistry together, quoting Shakespeare and entertaining the houseguests. Opening act two, Cullen's facial expressions inspired roaring laughter through his attempts at hiding a dead body. Martinez had an immaculate stage presence, shown throughout the séance scene, engaging the audience with her lively acting ability. Tamara Toma (Martha Gillette) showcased her comic caliber and deep physicality, sustaining laughter onstage.

The cast of "The Game's Afoot" played well together, captivating the audience with intense energy. Despite some fast-paced delivery, the ensemble had great pacing and succeeded at amping the murder mystery plot during act two.

From each radio dial turn to each light cue, Julia Kim called the entire production smoothly. The timing of sound cues was perfectly synced with onstage, seamlessly flowing between dialogue. Julia Kim and Isabella Ruiz's marketing and publicity did an effective job of broadcasting the show with clever community outreach projects and social media videos.

Sherlock Holmes might as well retire! Because it's clear, that with rich comedy and delightful chemistry, Archbishop McCarthy High School's production of "The Game's Afoot" was the true killer.

Tatyana Ramlogan
J.P. Taravella High School
Submitted for publication to www.floridatheateronstage.com

"Once more unto the breach, dear friends, once more;
Or close the wall up with our English dead.
I see you stand like greyhounds in the slips,
Straining upon the start. The game's afoot."
H-V-I-I-I-1-3-5. Henry the Fifth, Act 3, Scene 1, line 35. "The Game's Afoot," a production by Archbishop McCarthy High School provided a murderously hilarious night of mystery.

Picture this: it is December, the year is 1936. A murder attempt has been made on the life of Broadway star, William Gillette. To celebrate Christmas as he recovers, he invites multiple cast members to join him at his castle in Connecticut, then, BAM! Somebody's been stabbed! There's only one thing to be figured out, whodunnit? With a book by Ken Ludwig, this comedy is sure to have people dying of laughter.

William Gillette, wannabe Sherlock Holmes, was expertly played by Luis Granda. His relationship with his fellow cast members was an integral part of the show and it was certainly strong. But every Sherlock needs a Watson of sorts, right? Ryan Cullen played the lovably amusing character, Felix Geisel. His comedic timing was impeccable and there were several scenes in which Cullen's acting could have killed people from laughter. This is most notable in his struggle in Act 2 to hide the body, and then, subsequently, his struggle to get William to realize that said body was right behind the couch that he, William, and the suspicious inspector, Harriet Goring, were sitting upon.

Making a later entrance than the other house guests, but certainly an entrance, nonetheless, meet the oh so ever-hated theatre critic, Daria Chase, played by Isabella Ruiz. Ruiz was able to masterfully manipulate the highs and lows of her vocals in order to enhance the vicious hilarity of her scenes. Mia Martinez, playing Madge Geisel, was another who added to the farcical nature of the show with her over-the-top acting from start to finish.

One notable element was the practically picture-perfect timing of both lighting and (especially) sound cues. In this aspect, props must be given to the stage manager, Julia Kim. Many moments would not have been nearly as good as they were without the precise timing of the sound cues. And so, though behind the scenes, Julia Kim made her own mark in this enjoyable farce.

Archbishop McCarthy High School had us feeling that we could find ourselves a killer in their extravagantly, hysterical production of "The Game's Afoot." And so, in this merry murder mystery, do you think you know whodunnit?

Liliana Shaw
American Heritage School
Submitted for publication to The Maverick

From Broadway lights to murderous nights, something is brewing and a game ensuing. Archbishop McCarthy's production of "The Game's Afoot" takes the audience on a journey of a mystery full of clues, when lo and behold it's just a merry farcical ruse.

Critically acclaimed playwright Ken Ludwig crafted this farce in 2011, debuting it at the Cleveland Playhouse on November 25 of that same year. In 2012, the play went on to win an Edgar Allan Poe Award--an award dedicated to fictitious mystery works. The story is set in December of 1936, where actor William Gillette is forced to assume his role of Sherlock Holmes after a weekend of merrymaking ends in mystery and murder.

The name's Gillette; William Gillette. Luis Granda amazed audiences with his ability to differentiate between Gillette playing a character, being himself, and truly becoming this Sherlock Holmes-type character. His insatiable chemistry with both his mother, Martha (Tamara Toma) and friend Felix Geisel (Ryan Cullen), made for pivotal
comedic moments. Toma must be commended for her dedication both vocally and physically. Especially during the scene where he had to hide Daria's body, Cullen was captivating, compliments of his impeccable comedic timing and over-the-top facial expressions.

"D-A-R-I-A." Stupendous doesn't begin to describe Isabella Ruiz's performance as Daria Chase, the dearly despised and departed journalist. She allowed her anger to rise and fall, commanding the audience with every scream and screech. A game was truly afoot, for who would've known that it was the newlyweds, Aggie Wheeler (Bella Nanavichit) and Simon Bright (Steven Camacho), that were the culprits to this merry little scheme? There was an obvious romantic flare between the two, who shared the same murderous intents to kill not only others but each other. Nanavichit seamlessly shifted from her false perfect persona to a polar opposite conniving and maniacal self. Similarly, Camacho simply and subtly switched from sweet to psycho, adding an eerie essence to this already thrilling show.

Each quintessential moment was appropriately highlighted with well-timed cues by stage manager, Julia Kim. Sound and lighting cues exquisitely echoed the immense tension surrounding this electrifying performance. Kim's immaculate problem-solving skills were reflected in the success of both the trap door and prop knife.

Although there were issues with the consistency of the accents and diction, the overall production was executed excellently. Each character maintained an
inner dialogue, even when not speaking. The reactions to the ridiculously hysterical events of the play kept the audience engaged, from each gasp to every side-eyed gaze.

William Gillette's world is changed forever when his role of Sherlock Holmes is transferred from Broadway right to his very own living room, where murder, mystery, and a maniac mother aren't even the craziest parts of Archbishop McCarthy's "The Game's Afoot". A game is truly afoot!