The Hilltop Players of West Liberty University are performing The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940, by John Bishop, April 13 and 19-21 in Kelly Theater in the Hall of Fine Arts.  Tuesday through Saturday performances begin at 7:30 p.m., while the Sunday matinee begins at 3 p.m.

As the play opens, the creative team responsible for a recent Broadway flop (in which three chorus girls were murdered by the “Stage Door Slasher”) assembles for a backer’s audition at the estate of a wealthy “angel.” The house is replete with sliding panels, secret passageways and a German maid who is apparently four different people (all diabolical). The infamous “Slasher” makes his reappearance and strikes again—and again. The team prepares the audition during a blizzard that cuts off any possible retreat as bodies start to drop, knives spring out of nowhere, masked figures drag their victims behind swiveling bookcases, and accusing fingers point in all directions.  This murder mystery will keep you guessing while you’re laughing.

Directed by Michael Aulick, The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940 is the first comedy that he has directed since joining the WLU faculty three years ago.

Cast members include Karissa Martin, Jaccob Trifonoff, Jennifer Saling, Jaymes Kelly, Nathan Dunn, Marura Reiff, Kevin Hensley, Kassidy Wells, Clayton Dunn, and Cassandra Hackbart.

Graduating senior Karissa Martin will “leave them laughing,” as this is her final performance as a Hilltop Player.

On Friday, April 13, as an added bonus, “Coffee Before the Curtain” will be held at 6 p.m. in the Nutting Gallery adjacent to Kelly Theatre.  The purpose of this event is to introduce the public to the play, the Hilltop Players’ season, and the theater program in general.  “Coffee Before the Curtain” is free and open to the public.

General admissions tickets are $10; students (with I.D.s) are $5. For reservations, please call the Hilltop Players box office at 304.336.8277.