UWF Stage Set to Host Murder Mystery Musical Through Nov. 15

General admission tickets for the upcoming production at the University of West Florida are priced at $22 for adults. The Department of Theatre will stage "A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder" beginning Friday, Nov. 6, and continuing through Sunday, Nov. 15. The run includes evening performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., as well as a matinee on Sundays at 2:30 p.m. in the Besser Studio Theatre within the UWF Center for Fine and Performing Arts.

The story centers on Monty Navarro, a young man who learns he is ninth in line to an earldom and a substantial fortune following his mother's death. Faced with low odds of outliving the eight heirs ahead of him, Monty decides to take direct action to secure the title. The plot involves romantic interests in Phoebe and Sibella while Monty manages the succession. The musical is based on Roy Horniman's 1907 novel "Israel Rank: The Autobiography of a Criminal." Robert L. Freedman wrote the book and lyrics, while Steven Lutvak composed the music and additional lyrics.

Associate professor Sara Schoch, head of the BFA Musical Theatre program, directs the production. Constance R. Smith handles scenic design, assisted by UWF student Elise Klein, who serves as assistant design and scenic charge artist. Student Annaleese Fraser designed the costumes, and student Drew McCrary is responsible for lighting. Fraser noted her excitement for the project, stating, "I am so thankful for the opportunity to design such a fun musical! This show features a lot of moving pieces and silly moments, and I am beyond excited to see it all come together!"

The musical has won four Tony Awards. The Department of Theatre describes the work as a mix of murder, wit, and laughter. The production is licensed by Music Theatre International. The show is rated for adult audiences due to its subject matter, and latecomers will not be admitted until intermission because of the seating arrangement in the Besser Studio Theatre.

Pricing for the production varies by category. Adults pay $22 for general admission. Senior citizens and active military personnel pay $18. Non-UWF students, UWF faculty, and staff pay $16. Children and high school students pay $9. UWF students enter free with their ArgoCard. Tickets are sold at the CFPA Box Office in Building 82, by phone at 850.857.6285, or online at uwf.edu/cfpa.