The Grants Pass High School Theatre Department is set to bring laughter and chaos to the stage with its upcoming fall production, The Play That Goes Wrong. Running for two weekends from November 8th to 17th at the Grants Pass High School Performing Arts Center, this side-splitting comedy promises to deliver a night of theatrical mayhem and delight for audiences of all ages.
The story unfolds on the disastrous opening night of the Cornley Drama Society’s latest production, The Murder at Haversham Manor, a classic 1940s whodunit. However, what should be a typical murder mystery quickly spirals out of control as everything that can go wrong does. The set collapses, the actors fumble their lines, and even the “corpse” struggles to stay dead. Despite the chaos, the determined cast soldiers on, embodying the old adage that “the show must go on” — even if it’s an absolute disaster. The result is a laugh-out-loud celebration of theater’s unpredictable nature, making it an ideal choice for families and comedy lovers.
This award-winning comedy, known for its slapstick humor and clever staging, will be brought to life by a talented ensemble of 35 students, who make up the cast and crew. Under the direction of Denise Baker and the production guidance of Tianna Eddy, the team is pulling out all the stops to deliver a performance that lives up to the play’s chaotic reputation. Technical direction and set design are overseen by Wayd Drake, with Ruth Sears designing the costumes and August Duewel handling props.
The students have been working hard to master the art of comedic timing and stage mishaps, with special support from experts in the field. Local stage manager Jeff Baker has been leading specialized workshops, while fight choreographer Amy Lizardo has been teaching the cast the nuances of staged combat. Intimacy coach Gabrielle Hahn has also been involved, ensuring that the production handles physical humor safely and appropriately. The production is facilitated by Julia Cuppy, who leads the GPHS Theatre Department, known for its comprehensive training in all aspects of theater.
The Play That Goes Wrong will run at the Grants Pass Performing Arts Center from November 8th to November 17th, with performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:00 PM and Sunday matinees at 2:00 PM. The theater offers general seating, with tickets priced at $12 for adults and $8 for students and seniors. Tickets can be purchased online at gphstheatre.ludus.com or at the venue’s lobby one hour before showtime.
In addition to individual tickets, the GPHS Theatre Department is offering special group discounts for the production. On Opening Night, November 8th, groups purchasing four or more tickets will receive a 50% discount on their entire order. Additionally, a group discount is available for any performance; by purchasing 10 or more tickets and using the code “WINSTON,” buyers can receive $1 off each ticket.
This production is a must-see for those who appreciate the humor in things going awry and the dedication of performers who keep the show going no matter what. Don’t miss the chance to experience the laughter and mishaps firsthand as the Grants Pass High School Theatre Department brings The Play That Goes Wrong to life.
