Fans of Tim Curry, who died a few days ago, will remember him not only for his iconic role in Rocky Horror Picture Show, but the 1985 film Clue.
The musical version of Clue premiered off-Broadway in 1997. However, the theatrical powers-that-be were not done with it yet. In 2017 it was turned into a comedy-farce in 2017, and it is this version that is currently on stage at Penfold Theatre in Round Rock. Is it over-the-top? Yes. Is it worth seeing: You bet!
One reason for seeing it is that Clue stars Bailey Ellis, who, I must admit, is my favourite local actor. He takes on the role of Wadsworth, the same role played by Curry. Both actors approached the role of Wadsworth in a cartoonish way. Curry commanded the screen with razor-sharp vocal precision, rapid-fire line delivery, and expressive physical comedy; Ellis does the same for the stage. And, in the final scene, both employ pantomime (combined with dialogue) to a peak of absurdity that has never been surpassed.
I can’t give the plot away, but if you want to compare it to anything else, Murder on the Orient Express is closest. Of course that was deadly serious. Run it thru a Vincent Price sieve and you get Clue, which is deadly in a Gothic sense. The characters, very admirably played by a great ensemble cast, are clearly too foolish to be murderers. So, who is the serial killer? For those who enjoy gathering clues, this play is for you.
There is one element that very nearly steals the show: the set design. Consisting of an ever-changing array of walls that fold in and out to create new rooms or spaces, this design by David Utley is quite brilliant and effective.
Directed by Steven Pounders, Penfold Theatre is giving Austinites the best possible end-of-summer treat. If you have wondered what the phrase ‘get a clue means,’ see this play to watch a passel of Texans acting foolishly, missing the point, or just plain out of touch with reality. It’s the perfect way to spend 90 minutes.
Photos: Steve Rogers. Ellis centre stage in 2nd photo
Clue is on stage thru Oct. 11, 2026.
Address: 2120 N. Mays St., Round Rock
Tickets: penfoldtheatre.org