HCT to present 'A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder'

News-Topic, Lenoir, N.C.
·3 min read

Jul. 25—HICKORY

The stage is set for an enchanting theatrical experience as "A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder" makes its highly-anticipated debut on Friday, Aug. 25 at the Hickory Community Theatre.

This Tony Award-winning musical promises a night of laughter, romance, and wickedly dark humor. Presented by the Hickory Community Theatre, this production showcases the extraordinary talents of Kaylyn Hall as Sibella and Journey Cable as Phoebe, as they bring the vivacious characters to life like never before.

The captivating story revolves around Monty Navarro, an ambitious and penniless young man who discovers his aristocratic lineage, making him ninth in line to inherit the illustrious D'Ysquith family fortune.

With dreams of riches and power, Monty soon realizes that climbing the family tree comes with its challenges, namely eight eccentric relatives standing in his way. It is through this journey that he encounters the two strong-willed women, Sibella and Phoebe, who add both excitement and complexity to his life.

Stepping into the role of the alluring Sibella, Kaylyn Hall captivates the audience with the same exquisite charm and magnetic stage presence she displayed last season as Janet Van De Graaff in "The Drowsy Chaperone" and Sandra/Florence Colleymoore in "The Play That Goes Wrong."

When asked about her new role as Sibella, Hall said, "It is such a challenge for me and I couldn't be more excited. It is such a funny show with great music. There is such love and support at the Hickory Community Theatre, not only from the cast and crew but the audience as well."

Opposite Hall, the talented Journey Cable takes on the role of Phoebe, the poised and elegant lady of the D'Ysquith family. "A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder" is her second show at HCT. She made her debut in the Ensemble of "The Drowsy Chaperone." Her previous roles at other local theatres include Minnie Fay in "Hello Dolly" and Marrianne in "Disaster."

"I have always loved this show," Cable said. "Phoebe is so much fun and has a lot of frilly vocal bits. Hickory Community Theatre is such a beautiful performance space and I love the community."

Directed by Dalton Isaac, the production promises to be a delightful showcase of exceptional acting, fantastic humor, and catchy musical numbers that will keep the audience on the edge of their seats.

With its witty book and lyrics by Robert L. Freedman and charming music by Steven Lutvak, "A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder" has charmed audiences worldwide with its originality and darkly comedic tone.

Performances will run Friday, Aug. 25, through Saturday, Sept. 16; Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., Sundays (Sept. 3 and 10) at 2:30 p.m. and Thursday, Sept. 14 at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets for all performances are $16 for adults and $10 for youth and students.

For tickets, visit hickorytheatre.org or call the box office at 828-328-2283.

The production is rated PG and contains mature themes that may not be suitable for younger children.

The Hickory Community Theatre's 75th anniversary season is sponsored by A Cleaner World, Paramount Automotive and Sunbelt Xpress.

"A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder" is co-produced by Ken Wilkinson and Allen Wood III. The Hickory Community Theatre is a funded affiliate of the United Arts Council of Catawba County.