Rose Island Playhouse Marks 20 Years with a Hilarious Whodunit

By: Synthia Estep

Rose Island Playhouse, a beloved local theatre troupe, is celebrating two decades of bringing captivating performances to Charlestown with a special production. To commemorate its 20th anniversary, the playhouse is reviving the uproarious comedy "Sandbag, Stage Left," first staged in 2008.

In this comedic farce, audiences will be drawn into a mock trial surrounding a fictional murder that has occurred on stage. The leading lady of the play “Hello, Dolly!” has met an untimely demise due to a falling sandbag. The mystery unfolds as a variety of quirky characters—ranging from her husband to the stage manager and supporting actress—come under scrutiny. Attendees are invited to the Charlestown Arts & Enrichment Center this September to join in the fun and try to solve the case themselves.

"Sandbag, Stage Left" promises an evening of laughter as the trial of Arnold Meddle unfolds. Accused of murdering his wife Amelia, the lead actress, Arnold's fate rests in the hands of the audience who will witness the testimony of a motley crew of witnesses.

The production will run from September 27 through 29 and October 4 through 6. Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 2:00 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets are priced at $10 and can be purchased at the door or by calling the ticket office at 812-289-1329.