Two Murders + Purple Rose = A Major Laugh Fest

The Purple Rose Theatre Company is staging “Murder On The Links”, a Michigan Premiere by Steven Dietz through May 31^st, adapted from Agatha Christie’s 1923 novel by the same name.

Set designer Brian Dambacher and prop design by Danna Segrest perfectly conceptualized Bendena’s vision with a minimal set design and a limited number of props. Their combined approach worked pure magic with the audience. Much was left to the imagination of the audience which served to draw them deeper into the action on the stage. The simplicity brought sustained laughter as the audience became one with the action.

Christie hero Hercule Poirot, played with flair and sophistication by Bill Simmons, led a cast of zany characters in solving a double murder, on the links. Like any Agatha Christie mystery, there are plot twists and turns throughout. Purple Rose veteran Caitlin Cavannaugh played Poirot sidekick Captain Hastings.

Caitlin Cavannaugh as Captain Hastings & Bill Simmons as Hercule Poirot. Photo by Sean Carter Photography.

Cavannaugh’s performance was a highlight of the show. She was part detective on the hunt for a murderer and part a bumbling, easily distracted guy who falls for a pretty face. Portraying a man, Cavannaugh was so convincing in the role, there was never a suspicion of anything untoward.

The remaining cast members played multiple roles, with hilarious results. When changing characters just moments apart, the actors would change wigs, a hat or other piece of clothing and keep right on with their lines. It was an interesting approach that worked so very well. The audience roared with laughter at the slapstick antics on stage.

In one scene, actress Ruth Crawford, under questioning, would change from a white, horsehair wig, also known as a peruke, into a dark hat, representing a different character. That was a laugh-out-loud moment. Parts of Crawford’s performance was reminiscent of Madge, the delightful character from Office Christmas Party from the 2024-25 season.

(L-R) John Siebert, (Seated) Ruth Crawford & Bill Simmons. Photo by Sean Carter Photography.

John Siebert, Ashley Wickett and John Bernos also played multiple characters. Siebert, fresh from his role as Leonard, the parrot from Bert & Trixie Go To The Vet, played all of his characters in the same understated style. By playing each character straight up, he was funny in them all. Siebert is a great set-up guy for whoever has the next joke. He has an uncanny ability to set the table for belly laughs.

(L-R) Caitlin Cavannaugh, (on ladder) John Bernos, Ashley Wickett, John Siebert & (seated) Ruth Crawford. Photo by Sean Carter Photography.

Ashley Wickett was delightful. Multiple, quick costume changes, different looks and different voices entertained the audience. She played the distraught housekeeper and the sophisticated socialite with equal ease and precision. Watching Bernos cross-examine himself was pure comedic magic. Changing both the tone and volume of his voice showed a technique that is not easy to master.

Murder On The Links runs through Sunday, May 31^st. All performances are sold out. You can call (734) 433-7673 to get on the ticket wait list. The Purple Rose is located at 137 Park St., in Chelsea.