Courtroom thriller: 'Nuts' takes the stage at MCT

Melbourne Civic Theatre delves into the complex world of mental health and the justice system with the drama "Nuts." The play opens Friday, May 17 for a run through June 23.

The courtroom drama by Tom Topor follows Claudia Draper, an escort who finds herself in a legal battle to determine her mental competence after being charged with manslaughter. But Claudia claims self-defense, citing a history of sexual abuse as the driving force behind her actions.

"Her parents and attorneys would like to see her found mentally unfit to stand trial and be quietly incarcerated," said director Peg Girard. "She maintains her sanity and is passionate about establishing her psychiatric competency to prove self defense in the killing."

As the story unfolds, secrets are exposed and the audience is taken on a rollercoaster ride through the twists and turns of the legal system, while grappling with questions of sanity and truth.

The choice to include "Nuts" in Melbourne Civic Theatre's season reflects a departure from the conventional. This isn't the typical light-hearted comedy or whimsical musical. The play delves into the complexities of the human psyche, tackling themes of justice, mental illness and societal perceptions.

The nature of the story means the play may not be for everyone. Girard cautions that the show is appropriate for mature audiences.

"Given the subject matter of murder and prostitution, it follows that there is some coarse language used to convey the exact nature of the crime," she said.

Amanda Edmands Telebrico leads the cast as Claudia, the woman fighting to assert her autonomy in a world determined to silence her.

"She really gets to show off her dramatic chops as this woman fighting for her right to be heard," Girard said.

Rachel Greshes and Pete Jacobsen play Claudia's parents, tortured by the idea that some failing in her upbringing has led to her present circumstances. Steve Budkiewicz and Joey Pierson are the attorneys arguing the case, and Peter Olander plays the skeptical psychiatrist tasked with evaluating her mental state.

Girard said she has been wanting to direct a courtroom thriller, and "Nuts" fit the bill.

"'Nuts' offers a contemporary female perspective on this time-honored form, with the expected shocking revelations and what-will-the-verdict-be suspense."

If you go

'Nuts'

Where: Melbourne Civic Theatre, 817 E. Strawbridge Ave., Melbourne

When: Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. through June 23

Tickets: $35

Call: 321-723-6935

Website: mymct.org

Christina LaFortune is the Entertainment and TGIF Editor at FLORIDA TODAY. Follow her on Facebook at facebook.com/christinalafortune or send her an email at clafortune@floridatoday.com.

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This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Legal intrigue: 'Nuts' opens at Melbourne Civic Theatre