Princeton Performing Arts wrapped another successful fall production last weekend as students took the stage for “Poisoned in the Garden” on November 14 and 15. The comical murder-mystery was performed by a talented cast and crew of 19 students who delivered an energetic and engaging performance for families, staff, and community members.
Throughout the play, audiences followed detectives (Disaya Shipley and King Green) as they unraveled the mysterious poisoning of Edna (Katie Stevens), a wealthy woman whose colorful circle of acquaintances provided plenty of twists and humor. Flashback scenes, sharp dialogue, and well-timed comedic moments kept the crowd guessing until the very end. During the intermission, each audience member got to cast a vote on who they thought was the murderer.
The student performers embraced the play’s vivid characters, from the dog walker (Logan Norris) and the cook (Tatianna Mull) to the mayor (Rowan Kelly) and the best friend (Khalil Proctor). Was Edna poisoned by her son-in-law (Elessar DeHoff), grandchild (Rachel Marcotte), or driver (Corwin Darrah)? Maybe it was the gardener (Katelynn Jones), the medic (Ingrid Barrera Mendoza), or the hairdresser (Khushi Patel)? But if you guessed Edna was poisoned by the neighbor (Aleah Chapman), you would be correct!!
Behind the scenes, the student crew worked to support each performance through stage management (CC Van Buren and Ellie Jacobs), lighting (Adrian Gordy), and smooth scene transitions directed by Milo Strainic. The show was produced under our 32-year veteran music teacher and Princeton Distinguished Alumni, Dr. Syndy Casey.
This year’s production was adapted from the original interactive mystery by playwrights Jennifer Reif and Jessica Rodwick. Their imaginative storytelling provided a perfect platform for students to explore character development, comedic timing, and collaborative performance.
Special thanks go to the staff and volunteers who supported the production, as well as the families and community members who attended and encouraged our students.
