On January 31, February 1, and February 2, the Delbarton community experienced “The Mystery of Edwin Drood,” by the Delbarton Abbey Players. When the audience filed in, they were immersed in 1890s London where the Music Hall Royale is performing “The Mystery of Edwin Drood,” after the unfinished novel written by Charles Dickens. Narrated by Chairman William Cartwright, the cast performs the musical, which depicts a murder mystery taking place in Cloisterham.
John Jasper, the choirmaster of Cloisterham, is a “Jekyll and Hyde” personality who has a mad obsession with his music pupil, Rosa Bud and a nasty opium habit. However, Rosa is engaged to the young Edwin Drood. At the same time, the Rev. Crisparkle introduces Neville and Helena Landless, two immigrant orphans from Ceylon. Neville takes a liking to Rosa, making himself at odds with Drood and Jasper. After a frosty Christmas-eve dinner with the established characters, Edwin Drood goes missing while taking a walk outside with Neville Landless. While the townsfolk blame Neville, the Princess Puffer, the owner of an opium den in London, and a detective chosen by the audience investigate the crime and find Jasper to be a possible culprit as well. However, the unfinished book comes to an end, leaving the Music Hall Royale dependent on the audience for a verdict.
I thoroughly enjoyed “The Mystery of Edwin Drood” for three reasons. First, I found the option for audience participation intriguing and very fun. This decision allowed the audience to be invested in the action on stage and allowed them the ending they hoped for. Second, I enjoyed listening to the stunning musical performances of the actors and actresses. Not only were their voices strong and precise, but they also memorized the words of many different endings in preparation for any decision the audience might make. Third, the set was visually stunning and the accompanying music was not just a background noise, but rather a vital breath of life in each of the songs. Thanks to the work of the Delbarton Abbey Players, the Build and Stage crew, the accompanying musicians, and the leadership of Mr. Corica and Mr. Blazier, “They Mystery of Edwin Drood” was a success!
On the horizon, there is the Delbarton Winter Concert on February 25, where talented instrumentalists and vocalists will perform a special set. Also, the Delbarton One Acts Festival will be on April 25 and 26, so keep your ears open for updates on that entertaining experience.
