Bates sets a large cast for his third spring production

Alexis Ferguson reads the script during tryouts for the spring play, "Murder in the Knife Room," while Brittany Bryan, Shena Bryan and Aly James wait to recite their lines. Performances are March 25 and 26.

by Jered Engelking

“I suppose you’re all wondering why I gathered you here tonight in the Knife Room,” Mysterious Host said...

With March comes the  spring play production of “Murder in the Knife Room,” a comedic spin on the classic-who-done-it production of “Clue.” 

Tryouts were held on Feb. 21 and 22 and,  unlike most plays, this one does not have a main character or two. It has 22 main parts with 18 reenactment actors.

The play was written by Jonathan Rand and will be directed by Derek Bates.

Bates has directed three high school plays, “Daddy’s Girl,” his first one, “Into the Woods,” his second, and now, “Murder in the Knife Room.” 

Bates is a 2004 graduate of Montezuma high school and now currently a high school English teacher. He also was in a play each year of his high school career. 

Production nights are Friday, March 25 and Saturday, March 26.

“Patience! Patience! In due course all will be revealed. Rest assured, however, that the reason involves… a mystery! (Thunder) Intrigue! (Thunder) And apparently thunder. (Thunder),” said Mysterious Host.                                                                

Cast members are: Olivia Tribby, Nathan Wheeler, Calli Zimmerman,Katurah McKee, Kendra Cranston, Niall Lyons, Brynna Steele, Zach Gibson, Natalie Wheeler, Shena Bryan, Norman Martin, Alyssa Lyddon, Macy Taylor, Aly James, Lex Jack, Alex Peck, Alexis Ferguson, Matt Armstrong, Cassie Corbin, Conner Johnston, Jered Engelking, Tyler Foubert, Brittany Bryan, Emily Long, Breanna Johnson, Bridgette Moore, Garrett VanMaanen, Carly Steele, Arly LeBahn, Cheyenne Klos, Mariah Hirsch, Kaylee White, Colleen Johnston, Becky Kopp, Lizzie Jones,  Robby Sutfin, Dayton Pringle, Shane Lyons,  Stephen Vavroch and  Konner Johnson.

On Friday night, March 25. Carrie Stockman and Spanish students will host a fajita dinner in the junior high gym for community members. 

The menu will be a main dish of chicken/beef fajita, a side dish of rice and beans, and dessert of flan and arroz con leche with a drink of choice. 

For reservations, call 641-623-5121 or cstockman@montezuma.k12.ia.us for emails.