Editor’s noted: This article has been updated to correct the date of this show’s premiere.

Kernersville Little Theatre kicks off a “dark and mysterious” 48th season with “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder,” which opens next month.

The production is directed, choreographed, and designed by Tara Raczenski, who previously costumed a production of the show and was eager to take on this opportunity.

“Wearing many hats often comes with the territory of producing community theater, but I always find the challenge energizing,” she told Scope News. “Some of this territory is particularly new, though — especially set designing and choreography. Thankfully, I’ve had help and guidance and those aspects of the show have really been a team effort.”

With a plot featuring a love triangle, multiple murders, and a range of over-the-top characters, Raczenski described the vibe as “a dash of Monty Python and Downton Abbey thrown in for humor, cheek, and style,” adding that the show “just may make you wonder whether you’re watching a brilliant musical comedy, a macabre cautionary tale, or perhaps a generous helping of both.”

But despite the show’s sinister undertones, the director hopes audiences will leave James Fitzpatrick Auditorium “with sides aching from laughter and not a little bit impressed with what a little theater with a big heart can accomplish.”

Highlighting the hard work of the show’s cast and crew, she said the “experienced and talented” team includes music director Rick Hendricks, costume designer Sharon Jariel, stage managers Melissa Pellar and Ashley Lincoln, production manager Beth James, technical director and VP of production Jeff Prague, and sound and lighting team Jenny Lawrence and Leah Shipko.

“And don’t get me started about the cast,” she continued. “The soaring vocals! The comedic timing! The dialects! It’s been an absolute joy to work with all of them.”

She also thanked Korner’s Folly for serving as the backdrop for the show’s publicity photo shoot, including the image KLT provided for use with this article. Pictured in it, from left to right, are Sarah Jedrey, Ashley Pearson, Hendricks, Angelina Bassi, and Bradley McBride. 

The curtain rises September 19 and 20 at 7:30 p.m. and September 21 at 2:00 p.m., following the same schedule the following Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. James Fitzpatrick Auditorium is located at 512 West Mountain Street.

Click here for ticket information and additional details about the show.

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