Variety Productions announces second annual fall production: But Why Bump Off Barnaby?

Members of the cast and crew of But Why Bump Off Barnaby? at an early table reading of the script.

After the success of last fall’s production of Neil Simon’s Rumors, Variety Productions is excited to return to the stage this October with another exciting production. Directed by Kenny Voss, But Why Bump Off Barnaby? by Rick Abbot is a fast-paced murder mystery/comedy filled with eccentric characters, suspicious motives, witty dialogue, unexpected twists, and plenty of laughs.

Set in a world where everyone seems to have something to hide, the story follows a colorful cast of characters brought together under mysterious circumstances. However, one question hangs over the evening … why would anyone want to bump off Barnaby? Everyone becomes a suspect, every conversation hides a clue, and every unexpected turn keeps audiences laughing while trying to solve the mystery.

But Why Bump Off Barnaby? will be presented in the Dallas & Edith Pankowski Theater at the Jensen Community Center in Amherst with performances on Thursday, October 8; Friday, October 9; and Saturday, October 10 at 7 p.m., and Sunday, October 11, at 2 p.m.

Guests may choose between $15 reserved seating or $27 reserved seating with an all-you-can-eat hors d’oeuvres add-on, which begins one hour before each performance as well as at intermission. A cash bar and raffles (baskets and 50/50) will also be available, making it the perfect evening out with friends, family, or a date night.

Whether you come for the mystery, the comedy, the delicious appetizers, or simply to support local community theater, But Why Bump Off Barnaby? promises an entertaining experience from start to finish. Tickets may be reserved by scanning the QR code on the event poster found elsewhere in this issue, texting (715) 340-8078, or emailing vpjgtix@gmail.com.

Meet the cast. The talented local cast features both returning performers and newcomers from throughout Central Wisconsin, each bringing their own personality and theatrical flair to the stage.

Amber Fait as Dora Dunstock. Amber has performed with several Central Wisconsin theater groups and considers Central Wisconsin Area Community Theater (cwACT) her “second home.” But Why Bump Off Barnaby? marks her first production with Variety Productions, and she hopes it will be the first of many.

Dave Hanlon as Jeff Barnett. Dave has appeared with both cwACT and Variety Productions. His previous productions include Rumors, Matilda, and Girls’ Weekend. He said, that after having such a great experience with Variety Productions previously, returning to the stage for But Why Bump Off Barnaby? was an easy decision.

Ray Rice as Orion Leduc. Ray recently relocated to central Wisconsin from Stuart, Florida, where he was an active member of the local Barn Theatre for many years. His previous roles include Elwood P. Dowd in Harvey, George Washington Piney in A Bad Year for Tomatoes, and Mr. Spinoza in Arsenic and Old Lace.

Jen Vander Laan as Cleo Barton. Jen is a familiar face to many Spirit readers. Local audiences may remember her as the very tipsy — OK, downright drunk — Chris in Variety Productions’ Rumors. She has performed with Sand County Players, cwACT, and other community theater groups, and she loves the creativity, energy, and camaraderie that come with community theater.

Susan Elandt as Miss Barnsdale. Susan is excited to make her Variety Productions debut in But Why Bump Off Barnaby? Her previous stage credits include Meg in Girls’ Weekend and Mrs. Peacock in Clue On Stage, both with cwACT, where she also serves as president.

Carrie Dreger as Rosalind Barstow. Carrie has been involved in community theater since 2016 and has enjoyed performing in everything from musicals and comedies to dramas. Her past roles include the Baker’s Wife in Into the Woods, Mrs. White in Clue, and Alex in A Kid Like Jake. She first became involved with Variety Productions last summer when she played Claire in Rumors, and she said she was eager to return for But Why Bump Off Barnaby?

Isaac Kosibucki as Barnaby Folcey. Isaac has enjoyed theater since he was a child and has participated in several theater productions over the years. After seeing Variety Productions’ Rumors last year and being impressed by the production, Isaac was excited about the opportunity to be part of But Why Bump Off Barnaby? and experience the production from the other side of the stage.

Shelby Senderhauf as Lady Barbara Fenwick. Shelby is thrilled to be returning to the stage after many years away. But Why Bump Off Barnaby? is her first production since high school and her Variety Productions debut. Her favorite role from high school was the Lunatic in Tim Kelly’s Squad Room, and she is excited to rediscover her love of performing while working alongside such a talented cast and crew.

Mateo Koch as Medkins. Mateo is no stranger to the stage. He has been involved in theater for 11 years, including the past four years in community theater. His recent credits include Principal Duvall in Playhouse Theater Group’s production of Mean Girls, and he most recently appeared in Agatha Christie’s A Murder Is Announced. But Why Bump Off Barnaby? marks Mateo’s first production with Variety Productions.

Heather Podeszwa as Magnolia. Heather made her stage debut last year as the sassy, crystal-loving Cassie Cooper in Variety Productions’ Rumors — a role that quickly convinced her she had caught the acting bug. Performing had always been something Heather wanted to try, and she is excited to return to the stage for another VP production.

It takes a village. A production of this size would not be possible without an incredible team working behind the scenes. As with every Variety Productions show, But Why Bump Off Barnaby? is the result of an incredible group effort. Under the direction of Kenny Voss and Assistant Director Reggie Cowden, dozens of volunteers have donated their time and talents to create an unforgettable experience for audiences. Whether they’re building sets, creating props, running lights and sound, selling tickets, taking photos, organizing rehearsals, or tackling countless behind-the-scenes tasks, each person plays an important part. Community theater wouldn’t exist without volunteers like these, and Variety Productions is grateful for every individual who has helped bring this production to life.

Following the tremendous response to Rumors last fall, Variety Productions is excited to continue building a tradition of high-quality community theater. But Why Bump Off Barnaby? promises mystery, laughter, memorable characters, and an evening of entertainment you won’t soon forget.

Who wants to bump off Barnaby? You’ll have to come find out.