Never heard of it? Believe it or not, “The Mystery of Edwin Drood” is actually a novel written, but never completed, by Charles Dickens, who died before finishing the story. I

In the musical version being presented the weekend of March 5-7 by the VHS Spotlight Players, the audience is able to choose who they think is the murderer each night, along with picking the identity of a mystery character, and who they’d like to be lovers at the end. 

In case you are unfamiliar with the story (which you probably are), “The Mystery of Edwin Drood” follows the mysterious disappearance of Edwin Drood (Francesca Valle), along with an array of strange characters such as his young fiancé Rosa Bud (Sara Sexton), his uncle and the “obvious” villain John Jasper (Aidan Callari), the fiery Helena (Emily Wynne)  and Neville Landless (Jack McHugh) from Ceylon, and the infamous sinner the Princess Puffer (Ali Zanders). The show itself is hosted by the Chairman, William Cartwright (Griffin Willner). 

Each actor, actress, and even crew member takes on another persona from the Music Hall Royale, where it is the premiere of “The Mystery of Edwin Drood” in Victorian Era London. For example, Edwin Drood is played by the sassy male impersonator Alice Nutting, Princess Puffer is portrayed by the veteran diva Angela Prysock, Neville Landless by newbie Victor Grinstead, etc. Be prepared to participate in booing, hissing, singing, and chanting along with the cast.

With catchy songs like “A British Subject”, “Off to the Races”, and “Don’t Quit While You’re Ahead”, be sure not to miss the VHS Spotlight Player’s rendition of the comedy and murder mystery musical, “The Mystery of Edwin Drood”! Support the program and find out whodunnit March 5, 6, and 7, at 7 p.m. with a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday.