DEATHTRAP REVIEWS ARE IN!

Natalie Shaw, Dallas Theatre Journal

Click here to read Natalie's review in the Dallas Theatre Journal

Patron review by Penny Elaine

I love a good murder mystery! The “Who done it?”, the fear, the wanting to warn the actor that they are in immediate danger, the “Why?” Allen Contemporary Theatre’s production of Deathtrap does not disappoint!

While Sydney (Alex Rain), the writer blocked playwright and his under appreciated, ever encouraging wife, Myra (Heather Shin) contemplate the lengths they will go to, to insure Sydney’s next play is a hit, you discover that deception is not far behind. Then the dark twists unfold, rather shockingly.

The whole cast comes together to tell this dark story that draws you in from the start. You’ll see familiar faces and a couple of new ones to the ACT stage. I do need to highlight Kelly Moore Clarkson role of Helga. She brings that lightheartedness, with a touch of spooky that works so perfectly.

Go. Go see this show! See if you can solve the mystery, before it’s too late.

Patron review by Janette Oswald

I was lucky enough to join Allen Contemporary Theatre for opening night of Deathtrap last Friday. First, I want to say that everyone at ACT is always so kind & welcoming, it's just a joy to go there. They always brighten my day!

The set drew me in right away. Decorated with various implements of death & destruction, it was well-dressed to evoke a home in the northeast in the 1970's. The stone fireplace was beautiful! The costumes were well done, almost timeless, but perfect in the 1970's.

Alex Rain as Sidney Bruhl was good, with a good British accent & enough surprises up his sleeve to keep you guessing! He is a strong actor & kept the pacing moving along. As his role is considerable, his energy drives the show & it was fast-paced & even. Heather Shin as Myra Bruhl conveyed the fear & uncertainty of her character well. She's always a pleasure to watch onstage. It's a pity she's onstage for such a short period of time, but that time is memorable. Logan Gaconnier played Clifford Anderson with a little less finesse than some of the other actors, but he is fairly new to the stage & he is to be commended for taking on such a major role so early in his career. I look forward to seeing his theatrical journey! Helga ten Dorp was played effortlessly by Kelly Moore Clarkson. Her Dutch accent was light & believable & her psychic moments quite humorous. She never disappoints. Again, the women's roles in this show are just too small! Rounding out the cast was Kenneth Fulenwider as Porter Milgram. Kenneth is always reliably strong, even in roles as small as this & I enjoy watching him. This show was no exception.

Director Robyn Mead found a good cast for a fast-paced classic comic thriller. Visually lovely & strongly acted, it's a fun night out for anyone who appreciates the twists & turns of a good thriller!