The Lake Country Players are set to delight audiences with a classic that never loses its charm – “Arsenic & Old Lace” by Joseph Kesselring. Under the direction of Mo Brower and Assistant Director Anenaca Simpson, this timeless play is poised to take the stage at Greensboro’s Festival Hall November 2-5. With a backdrop of 1941 Brooklyn, New York, and a cast of talented actors, this darkly comedic tale promises an evening of uproarious laughter.

“Arsenic & Old Lace” unfolds in the living room of the Brewster family home, inhabited by two seemingly sweet and innocent spinster sisters, Abby and Martha Brewster, portrayed by Debbie McCown and Rusty Faulk. Little do the townsfolk know, the sisters harbor a dark secret: they are serial killers who poison lonely old men with arsenic-laced elderberry wine. Their motivations, however, are entirely misguided as they believe they are performing acts of mercy by sending these poor souls to a better place. The plot thickens when their estranged nephew Mortimer Brewster, played by Michael Homeier, a drama critic, returns to the family home and discovers his aunts’ sinister activities. Mortimer is torn between his love for his aunts and his sense of moral duty, and chaos ensues as he tries to contain the situation. To make matters even more complicated, another nephew, Jonathan Brewster, brought to life by Art Shutt, arrives with his own dark secrets, further complicating the family dynamics.

“Arsenic & Old Lace” is a classic example of a dark comedy that expertly balances sinister themes with humor, and the Lake Country Players are primed to bring this unique genre to life. The absurdity of the situation, juxtaposed with the quirky, endearing qualities of the characters, creates a perfect recipe for humor that transcends generations. The play’s dark humor challenges the audience to contemplate moral dilemmas in an amusing way. It’s a rollercoaster of laughter, suspense, and surprise, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a theatrical experience that is both thought-provoking and entertaining.

Lake Country Players upholds a longstanding tradition of offering a stage for local talent to dazzle. Under the dedicated leadership of Brower and Simpson, the cast and crew have invested unwavering efforts to guarantee that “Arsenic & Old Lace” becomes an unforgettable experience for every attendee. Among the gifted ensemble are Michael Alexander, Steve Atchley, Lu Feldman, Carol Grant, Ed Kercado, Anenaca Simpson, Drace Langford and William Thompson.

The Lake Country Players are particularly fond of Festival Hall as a performance venue. Festival Hall offers a unique and immersive theatrical experience that goes beyond the traditional stage. One of the standout features is the table seating arrangement, which allows theatergoers to enjoy the play in comfort and style. What sets Festival Hall apart is the opportunity to indulge in a glass of wine while savoring a delectable Charcuterie Board prepared by Chef Deborah, all conveniently delivered to your table on the day of the performance. This catering service adds an extra layer of sophistication to your theater experience, transforming it into a delightful culinary adventure. As you settle into your seat at Festival Hall, you’re not just an observer; you become part of the atmosphere. The cozy table setup and the delectable offerings set the stage for a perfect evening of entertainment the ability to sip wine, nibble on a Charcuterie Board, and be fully immersed in the world of “Arsenic & Old Lace.

Incorporating food and drink into the theatrical experience enhances the ambiance, creating an atmosphere that enhances the comedic aspects of the play. The audience can share their reactions, laughter, and gasps, making it an even more memorable and communal experience.

Mo Brower’s choice to bring “Arsenic & Old Lace” to Festival Hall aligns perfectly with the venue’s vision of combining quality performances with an unforgettable dining experience. It’s a testament to the director’s commitment to offering audiences a complete and immersive evening of entertainment, where the magic of theater seamlessly intertwines with the pleasure of good food and company.

As you prepare to attend the Lake Country Players’ production of “Arsenic & Old Lace” at Festival Hall, be sure to arrive with an appetite for both laughter and delicious food. This unique fusion of theater and culinary artistry will undoubtedly leave you with lasting memories of a night well spent in downtown Greensboro. So, secure your seats, savor the wine, relish the Charcuterie Board, and get ready to be swept away into the uproarious world of the Brewster family.

Don’t miss the Lake Country Players’ rendition of “Arsenic & Old Lace” as it takes the audience on a rollercoaster ride of comedic chaos and moral reflection. Tickets on sale now at www.lakecountryplayers.org or call (762)233-0039.