Hays Post

Thomas More Prep-Marian will present the murder mystery/comedy “A Family Reunion to Die For” as its spring play  7 p.m. April 13, and 14 and 2 p.m. April 15 in the TMP Dreiling Theater, 1701 Hall St.

Travis Grizzell, director, said on the KAYS Morning Show Friday after the complex musical “Into the Woods” in the fall and Shakespeare last year, he and the students were ready for something a little goofy.

The play is set in a country western bed and breakfast in the Virgin Islands.

“We got a troupe of mimes, we’ve got a comic-con guy who shows up in a different costume in every scene. We have a few characters from all walks there,” Grizzell said.

Christine Franklin intends to show off her new husband, Freddie, at the Knotting Family Reunion. She hasn’t seen her relatives in years. However, the reunion turns tragic when Aunt Gretchen, Cousin Rachel and Cousin Stefan are murdered. Christine fears for her life.

Freddie, a mall security guard, tries to solve the case. Possible suspects include squirrel-hunting hillbilly sisters, a knitting former Vegas showgirl, a inept maid, a grouchy cook, a bitter journalist and a troupe of mimes.

The three dead relatives return and enlist the audience’s help to assist Freddie to find the real killer.

About 40 students are involved in this production, Grizzell said.

“You see the kids bloom in every show,” he said, “—the young ones or the ones who are finally coming around to fit into their own. It is a great process to see.”

Tickets are $8. Book tickets online by clicking here.

Tickets can also be reserved by leaving a message at the Fine Arts Ticket Line: 785-621-5478 or purchased at the door.