A Thrilling Experience at Kelsey Theatre: Deathtrap Delivers Unexpected Twists and Stunning Performances

by Mike McKeon

“Whoa! That was not what I expected!” I found myself repeating throughout my time at Mercer County Community College, beginning with the beautiful on-campus theatre.  I had the pleasure of visiting Kelsey Theatre to attend the production of DEATHTRAP presented by Maurer Productions Onstage and directed by John M. Maurer.  I was lucky enough to be settled perfectly center of the tiered style seating, providing a great view with very comfortable chairs. 

DEATHTRAP, a thriller, takes place in 1978 Connecticut, at the home of playwright Sidney Bruhl.  This is made very obvious by the excellent set design provided by John M. Maurer and Master Carpenter Jeff Cantor. It is also noteworthy that set construction is credited to “Cast, Family and Friends” because the set was marvelous. Having the set accompanied by the lighting/SFX design (Judi Parrish) and sound design (Daniel Adamy), it was very clear where the action was happening on stage.  The lighting and sound were utilized very well for anything from introducing characters to causing you to feel the appropriate level of anxiety during small details in the show. The timing of the sound effects was perfectly on point for things like thunder and lightning, or reminding you to pay attention at key moments.  

When the curtain opens we are introduced to Sidney Bruhl (Edward Forsthoffer III) and his wife Myra Bruhl (Hester Young), having a discussion in Sidney’s study.  Forsthoffer and Young had great chemistry together.  The conversation between the two was well-timed and flowed naturally. This is especially important due to the unexpected twists and turns throughout the show, making the surprises much more genuine.  The audience audibly reacted each time a new piece of information was uncovered. After concluding this conversation, we are introduced to Clifford Anderson (Daniel Gleason) again, in Sidney’s study with Myra.  Clifford also maintained a natural flow in conversation, but more importantly, Gleason was able to portray multiple emotions on stage, shifting quickly between them.  This was very essential to understand the context, as the show’s tone changed. 

On stage right, a spot light perfectly illuminates our newest character, matching her glowing personality on stage.  With a knock on the front door, we are introduced to Helga ten Dorp (Christina Parke), who you can tell is Dutch based on her consistent accent.  Parke hits the stage loud and with strong energy, showing Helga’s fiery confidence. Even to the very end of the show, Parke is a force to be reckoned with.  She provides both a somber temperament while delivering ominous messages, along with comic relief when needed. Lastly, we are introduced to Sidney’s attorney, Porter Milgrim (Barry Leonard). Leonard is not seen much during the show, but is very important to the storyline. Leonard’s interactions with Parke are hilarious and engaged the entire audience.

Director John M. Maurer did a great job of keeping the show flowing. Even during intermission, when small set changes were required for Act 2, we had fun interactions with the crew, including: Jeff Cantor, Haley Schmalbach, Chris Schmalbach, Dianna Gilman Maurer, Assistant Stage Manager Zhi Sharpe & Stage Manager Melissa Gaynor.  Members of the crew dressed as maids and handymen, relevant to the show, while making the set changes seamlessly.  It was a nice comical relief in light of the way Act 1 ends….

Costume design, by Anthony Wurtz, was very appropriate for 1978 and made the story more authentic. Along with the costumes was an impressive collection of props, also provided by none other than John M. Maurer.  Anyone who has read my reviews in the past knows I am a huge fan of good props.  They always bring the story to life for me.  Keeping with the theme of Sidney Bruhl there was a large display of prop weapons on stage, and I bet you will never guess which ones on display were actually used in the show. I’d love to give you an example, but that would ruin the fun.  So, hurry up and buy your tickets for this great thriller!! DEATHTRAP runs now through April 13, you can purchase tickets here: https://www.purplepass.com/events/296568-deathtrap-apr-12th-2025