FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 16, 2023
Media Contact: Kelsey Bye | 510-926-0688 | kbye@beniciatheatregroup.org
BENICIA THEATRE GROUP PRESENTS OPENING NIGHT OF
CLASSIC MURDER MYSTERY PLAY “DEATHTRAP”
Broadway’s longest-running comedy-thriller comes to a local community theatre near you
BENICIA, CALIFORNIA – Tickets are on sale now for Benicia Theatre Group’s production of DEATHTRAP, which opens this Friday, October 20th. This gripping and sinister play features suspense, humor, murder, unexpected plot twists and edge-of-your-seat moments that will keep you guessing until the very end.
The play follows renowned playwright Sidney Bruhl, who is struggling to overcome a dry spell in his writing career. When he receives a brilliant script from a young aspiring playwright, Clifford Anderson, Sidney sees an opportunity to revive his own career. However, as the story unfolds, dark secrets and sinister intentions come to light. Written by Ira Levin in 1978, DEATHTRAP will be directed by Gregg Klein, in his second production with the Benicia Theatre Group.
“I’m really excited about the talented director, actors, and production team we have to present in DEATHTRAP. The play is going to be very entertaining and a thrill to watch,” said Brian Hough, the president of the Benicia Theatre Group’s Board of Directors. “Opening night is going to be a fabulous night for all.” Light snacks and drinks will be available for purchase at the bar, including wine, beer and the themed cocktails “Twisted Deceit” and “Bloody Mary,” for those over 21 years old.
The cast showcases local Bay Area talent including:
Joe Fitzgerald from Benicia, California: plays Sidney Bruhl – a washed-up playwright
Shauna Shoptaw from Hayward, California: plays Myra Bruhl – Sidney’s wife
Mark Shepard from Richmond, California: plays Porter Milgrim – Sidney’s lawyer
Charlie Hodes from Martinez, California: plays Clifford Andersen – a young playwright
Annie Larson from Concord, California: plays Helga ten Dorp – a mysterious psychic
“We have people that come from all parts of the Bay Area to enjoy our shows, and also people who audition from all parts of the Bay Area,” said Cynthia Smith, Board Secretary for the Benicia Theatre Group. “We’re really appreciative of our Benicia community, the Solano County community and the greater San Francisco Bay Area for their support.”
Performances will be held October 20th – November 12th on Friday and Saturday nights, along with Sunday matinees at the historic B.D.E.S. Portuguese Hall of Benicia, located at 140 W J St in Benicia, California. Note: this venue is not wheelchair accessible.
Tickets can be purchased online at https://beniciatg.booktix.net or by calling us at (707) 746-1269. Tickets are $26 each; a $2 discount is offered for both students and seniors.*
*Complimentary show tickets will be available to reporters and reviewers, upon request.
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BENICIA THEATRE GROUP
Benicia Theatre Group was established in 1964 as Benicia Old Town Theatre Group and has been a constant source of live entertainment in Benicia and the surrounding communities ever since, establishing it as one of the oldest community theatres in California. The mission of the Benicia Theatre Group is to promote community theatre in the city of Benicia, Solano County and the surrounding communities by providing a wide variety of high-quality theatrical entertainment. We also strive to promote training in all aspects of theatre arts, allowing aspiring performers and behind-the-scenes volunteers to learn, practice and perfect their crafts.
