Timp Arts will present 10 performances of the interactive musical The Mystery of Edwin Drood at the Valentine Theater in American Fork from Oct. 9 through Oct. 24, according to a Oct. 10 report.
The five-time Tony-winning Best Musical is based on Charles Dickens's unfinished final novel and features an interactive element where the audience votes on the ending, meaning no two shows end the same way.
Directed by Theater Program Manager Andrew Jefferies, the production includes music director Christian Wawro and choreographer Stephanie Cole. Lily Shepherd stars in the title role.
Jefferies stated that the comedic murder mystery features zany characters and Charles Dickens's wit. He noted that the audience votes on multiple elements impacting the final half hour of the show, which can result in one out of nearly 500 different possible endings every night.
The production is staged as a show within a show, presented as if a traveling Victorian troupe called The Music Hall Royale is performing. Each actor performs two roles: a member of the troupe and a Dickensian character.
Set in the town of Chesterham, the plot follows Edwin Drood, who disappears right before his marriage to Rosa Bud. Because the ending changes based on audience voting, viewers can see different story developments each performance.
The Timpanogos Arts Foundation has recently rebranded as Timp Arts. This evolution includes new leadership, a refreshed brand identity, a redesigned website, and a renewed mission to connect the Timpanogos community through arts opportunities. The organization aims to serve as a cultural anchor for the region by supporting artists and engaging families and schools.
Tickets for the performances at the Valentine Theater can be purchased at TimpArts.com.
